Social landlord, Cynon Taf Community Housing Group (CTCHG), following an extensive recruitment process has appointed Auriol Miller as its new chief executive.

Working with executive search recruitment agency, Goodson Thomas, CTCHG received more than 60 expressions of interest in the role and the Group is delighted to welcome Auriol into the organisation.

Ms. Miller joins CTCHG from the Institute of Welsh Affairs (IWA), where she led Wales’ leading independent thinktank for seven years.

She said of her appointment, “I’m delighted to be joining Cynon Taf Community Housing Group as CEO. It will be a privilege to lead such a strong values-based anchor organisation doing vital work in the local community.

“Housing is one of the key issues of our time and tackling the huge challenges and impacts of climate change, as well as inequalities, can only be done hand-in-hand with the community whom we serve. A safe, warm, affordable home is a basic human right, and I look forward to enabling and supporting #TeamCynonTaf to continue their fantastic work supporting resilient communities.”

Cynon Taf Community Housing Group is responsible for more than 1900 homes across the valley and consists of three organisations – Cynon Taf Housing, Cwm Taf Care & Repair and Down To Zero.

John Chown, chair of the Group Board added, “As a Board, we are absolutely delighted to welcome Auriol to the organisation. Her experience, leadership skills and extensive network will not only bring stability to the Group, but we will look forward to working with her and the senior leadership team once in post to explore new opportunities, as well as continue to deliver against our corporate priorities.

“We would also like to extend our thanks to Kath Palmer, who stepped in as interim chief executive since last year to provide the Group with consistency and strategic leadership while we worked to recruit a permanent position and wish her the best of luck with her new role as Vice Chair to Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board”.

Ms. Miller will lead the Group structure, which employs more than 100 people who are looking to deliver excellent services and support resilient communities; whether through providing affordable homes, delivering adaptations to enable residents to live more independently in their homes, or exploring how the Group can deliver on its target to be carbon neutral by 2040.

Kath Palmer, interim chief executive commented, “It has been a pleasure to lead Cynon Taf Community Housing Group over the last year. There has been some significant change in that time, including the implementation of Renting Homes (Wales) Act, and the ongoing commitment of the staff has been incredible. They continue to deliver excellent services and support our communities to reach their potential. I wish Auriol the best of luck in taking on the role as chief executive.”

Following a handover period, Ms. Miller will join Cynon Taf Community Housing Group in February 2024.