The Board of Golden Lane Housing (GLH) is pleased to announce the appointment of two highly experienced sector leaders to its Board on 17th December 2024. Additionally, Chief Executive John Verge will also become an Executive member of the Board, further enhancing the organisation’s strategic leadership.

The election of Steve Secker to the role of Chair of the Board and Jason Ridley as Chair of the Risk and Audit Committee will strengthen Golden Lane Housing’s ability to deliver its mission of helping people with a learning disability and autistic people find and enjoy a suitable, safe home.

Steve Secker is an experienced non-executive director who has also served as a Managing Director at McCarthy and Stone. Steve’s deep understanding of supported housing services and his focus on impactful change fully align with Golden Lane Housing’s vision and mission.

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Jason Ridley brings an extensive financial background, with executive and board-level experience across the social housing sector. Jason’s expertise in financial stewardship and governance will be instrumental in leading the Risk and Audit Committee. His insight, clarity, and knowledge will play a key role in supporting the organisation’s growth and impact.

Both Steve and Jason have personal ties to the work of Golden Lane Housing, as each is a parent of an adult child with a learning disability. This common experience enhances their leadership with a deep sense of empathy and commitment.

Their induction has already started, with both attending the annual Making Plans Day with tenants, Board, and Executive colleagues, focusing on priorities for the next three years.

Tenant Oakley Strike said, “The making plans day was such good fun, and I am pleased that Steve Secker is Chair of the Board. I hope he has success in his role as Chair.”

Tenant Mark Johnson added, “It was great to meet our new Chair of the Board, Steve Secker, at Making Plans Day. The day was an opportunity for myself and the other tenants from the Board and Tenant Working Together Committee to meet with Steve, our other board members, and our executive team and share feedback. We are excited to continue to work with Steve in the future.”

Steve and Jason will have further opportunities to engage with tenants, colleagues, and wider stakeholders over the coming year.

The appointments also see Chief Executive John Verge take on the additional role of an Executive member of the Board. This dual role underscores the importance of strong collaboration between the Executive team and the Board in driving forward Golden Lane Housing’s strategic goals.

These changes coincide with long-standing Board members Neil Hadden and Stephen Jack completing their terms as Chair and Chair of the Risk and Audit Committee, respectively. Under their leadership, Golden Lane Housing has made significant strides in delivering innovative housing solutions and enhancing the lives of people with learning disabilities and autistic people. The Board extends its heartfelt gratitude to Neil and Stephen for their exceptional dedication and unwavering commitment, which have laid a strong foundation for future growth and success.

John Verge expressed his gratitude, saying, “A big thank you to Neil and Stephen for their huge contribution to the journey of Golden Lane Housing over many years. The passion and commitment shown have greatly influenced our impact in providing supported housing for people with learning disabilities and autistic people.”