Caerphilly-based housing association United Welsh has appointed a new Chief Executive.

Richard Mann, who was previously the not-for-profit organisation’s Deputy Chief Executive and Group Director of Operations, will take up the new role in January.

Mr Mann will take over from Lynda Sagona, who is retiring after five years as Chief Executive.

With 20 years experience working in the housing sector, Mr Mann joined United Welsh as a director in 2005 and has been involved in numerous regeneration projects, including the transformation of Caerphilly Miners’ Hospital and Bargoed’s Hanbury Chapel.

He is also a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Building) and has served as the Chairman of Community Housing Cymru’s Technical Services.

Mr said: “Everything that United Welsh does stems from our social purpose. While we are a housing organisation that builds and provides high quality homes, we are driven by making a positive difference to the people who live in those homes and communities.

“Everyone at United Welsh is passionate about the impact of our work and building on the organisation’s successful outcomes under Lynda’s leadership, we remain committed to making a major contribution in ending homelessness, tackling poverty and improving wellbeing.

“I am excited to continue our collaborations with government and the housing and health sectors to create a better, greener future for people in Wales.” 

Grahame Sturges, Chair of the Board for the United Welsh Group, said Mr Mann was appointed following a “rigorous” recruitment process and said: “Richard has extensive knowledge of the group and the sector, and he is committed to leading with the strong values of United Welsh firmly in mind. 

“Lynda’s retirement from the business after a long and successful career leaves the group in a strong position to grow and develop.”

Currently, United Welsh provides more than 6,300 homes across south Wales, with plans to build 1,300 more in the next five years.