The independent interview process for the common purpose board is complete and the new single board appointed. We are delighted to announce that the successful candidates who will oversee the strategic direction of Westward are pictured below, left to right:
Jonathan Bayliss, Ro Day, Chris Eccles, Karen Evans, Robin Evans, Claire Hodson, David Howell and Liz Smith.
Peter Cowling, Westward Chairman, said, “It’s the right thing for the company, I am delighted that we are now in strong position to take forward the organisation in a united manner. The skills and experience of our new team of board members put us in exactly the right place to deal with the challenges currently facing housing services.”
The boards of Westcountry Housing, Tarka Housing and Westward Housing Group decided, following a period of review and consultation, that the strategic work of Westward would be better managed by a single board. The board will focus on the strategic management of the business whilst powers and decision making responsibilities will be delegated to regionally based service panels.
The board members of Westcountry and Westward who applied for a position on the new common purpose board were interviewed by an independent panel. The process was based on criteria of appropriate skills and experience identified as priorities for the new board, by existing board members.
As part of our approach to the new world of co-regulation, our residents will have a much more fundamental and inclusive role in running the operational business and making decisions about services we provide. They are therefore encouraged to apply for roles on the service panels and board. Any of our 6,500 residents are welcome to apply to join the board and we will provide support and training to help them feel confident and ready when vacancies are available.
There will be four area service panels, one covering the west area, one covering the east, one covering the north, and one which will manage our supported housing and social enterprise work. For the time being, Tarka’s board in Torridge will remain separate and will also act as the north area service panel.