Job Description

Forward Housing

Forward Housing is an innovative, charitable provider of adapted property for people with a learning disability. Established 30 years ago, it owns and leases properties across the UK and works with individuals and their families, housing associations and support providers to identify, purchase/lease and adapt properties specially tailored to individual need. Its philosophy is that “an ordinary house on an ordinary street” has the ability to facilitate the independence and engagement of tenants with a learning disability in their local community. Since 2015, it has provided 67 properties to a value of over £17m.

Part of the charitable Thera Group of companies, Forward Housing also works with Cheyne Capital and has £3m of financing available from its Social Property Impact Fund

Thera is known for its unique leadership structure which includes people with a learning disability in paid executive and other roles, demonstrating that people with a learning disability can be leaders in society.

The Role

As the Director of Forward Housing, you will lead the charity and work with individuals with a lived experience of a learning disability, their families and key partners to source and adapt properties for people who often need great consideration paid to the importance of a suitable home how their house plays a key part in enabling their individual’s independence and supporting their engagement with their local community.

It is therefore essential that you understand the specific needs of those with a learning disability and of supported tenancies. You’ll have a development background and experience in specifying viable property schemes and related financial modelling as well having a comprehensive knowledge of domestic construction and the Housing Benefit system.

As Director, you’ll work with Forward Housing’s trustees to achieve the charity’s strategic vision, building on its evident impact for more people. You’ll need to manage a range of regulatory matters and be accountable for adherence to internal and external policies, building contracts and contract law and planning regulations.

About You

In anticipation of the retirement of Gareth Jackson, our current Director, this is an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic leader with development experience  to build on his success. You’ll have key experience in property survey, conveyancing and valuation; and knowledge of legal structures such as leases, covenants and nomination agreements is essential.

You will have good problem solving skills and be able to manage resources, deliver property schemes to budget and timescale and to manage risk. You’ll be someone able to take the initiative, seek opportunities and network across the learning disability and housing sectors in order to meet our charitable aims. You’ll be able to build strong working relationships, be a natural influencer and possess exceptional communication skills.

The Benefits

• 30 days holiday + 8 days bank holiday
• Lease car scheme
• Flexible working and flexitime
• Contributory pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee support line to support you and your family
• Support in gaining professional qualifications
• On the job training
• Laptop and mobile phone

*We reserve the right to close this advert before the closing deadline if we interview and offer the right candidate. Apply now to avoid disappointment.*