New trio at top for Genesis

Genesis Housing Group has made three key senior appointments as it prepares for major change to its group structure.

From 1 April 2011, Genesis will be divided into two geographical divisions: east and west in a bid to ensure more of a local focus and stronger engagement with residents and stakeholders in those areas. Genesis is also looking to concentrate stock in London, Hertfordshire and Essex to make more of a strategic contribution in those areas.

John Carleton will join Genesis in the newly created post of managing director of Gen Homes. This post brings together the existing functions of development, shared ownership and outrights sales, procurement and strategic asset management. Carleton has extensive experience in housing development and finance after a varied career in housing, banking and consultancy, including an earlier role as the director of investment and regeneration for the Housing Corporation in the North of England. Carleton will join the group in September.

Carleton said “Genesis has a great track record in providing much needed, high quality affordable homes. I’m looking forward to joining their exciting journey that puts customers right at the heart of the business”

Olu Olanrewaju and Feargal Ward have been appointed as the new divisional directors and will take up these posts from 1 April 2011.

Olu Olanrewaju has almost 20 years experience in housing, successfully leading organisations as managing director as well as holding several board appointments, including at East Thames Housing where he was vice-chair. He is currently MD of PCHA and prior to that was MD at Midland Heart. He will continue in the role of MD of PCHA until the end of March 2011.

Commenting on his new role, he said: "I am very pleased to be a part of the exciting changes taking place at Genesis. I want to continue to serve customers and support employees and other stakeholders, and with the more local focus Genesis is taking, this will be easier to achieve.”

Feargal Ward has over 20 years experience in housing and has built up strong relationships with local authorities throughout his career. He is currently MD of Pathmeads where he leads temporary housing, contracts, private sector management and maintenance services. He will also continue in post until the end of March.

He said: "I am delighted to be part of the new Genesis as it strengthens engagement with residents and stakeholders to continue to build better and brighter futures”.