Bernicia has appointed Avril Gibson as its new Chair, succeeding John Holmes who steps down after nine years in post.
Avril – a former Chief Executive of the Northern Learning Trust with a successful career in the voluntary and education sectors – will lead the Board after four years as Deputy Chair.
John Holmes leaves the Bernicia Board after serving a full nine years.
Avril’s appointment builds on his legacy and the strength of Bernicia’s governance structures at a time of growth and major new investment at Bernicia.
Chief Executive John Johnston recently unveiled ambitious plans to invest more than £400m into homes, services and communities in a new five-year corporate strategy ‘The Bernicia Effect: Supporting Opportunity.’
Avril said: “It is a privilege to accept the role of Chair of the Board, and I am committed to continuing the strong and collaborative leadership already established here at Bernicia.
“Along with John Johnston and the Executive Team, this will ensure that Bernicia continues to thrive, grow and make meaningful differences in our communities.
“We will achieve this by continuing to provide quality homes and wider services to support households and families.”
A respected business leader, John Holmes’ business acumen gained as chief executive of economic development organisation Hull Forward, and as project director within the Tyne and Wear Development Corporation among other leading business roles, has proved invaluable to Bernicia.
He said: “I wish Avril every success as I hand over the reins to her as Chair. I reflect on the transformation of the company over the past nine years and pay tribute to John Johnston in leading the company so well. Bernicia is now established as a highly respected and effective housing provider, business partner and a great contributor to the regional economy.
“I have greatly enjoyed working with John and a very dedicated and experienced group of colleagues as well as benefiting from the commitment and expertise of a very talented Board.”
John Johnston said: “It’s been a pleasure to work alongside John during an important period of development, success and change for Bernicia. The organisation is now outward facing, highly respected and valued within the region. Bernicia’s success and reputation owes much to people like John Holmes, his support and encouragement, as well as his standing within and outside the organisation have been invaluable.
“I am pleased to welcome Avril to the role of Chair. Avril is already a trusted and impactful board member, with a strong social conscience and drive to do the very best for Bernicia’s tenants and the wider communities of the North East.”
Bernicia has appointed Avril Gibson as its new Chair, succeeding John Holmes who steps down after nine years in post. Avril – a former Chief Executive of the Northern Learning Trust with a successful career in the voluntary and education sectors – will lead the Board after four years as…
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