This week's movers and shakers
Helen Hopgood
Devizes-based Sarsen Housing Association, part of Silbury Group, has appointed Helen Hopgood to the new post of private sector leasing coordinator.

Hopgood was previously Sarsen’s hostels coordinator and has been with the association for nearly four years.

Patricia Gills
Patricia Gillis has been appointed managing director of Durkan Partnerships, the new joint working division of social housing contractor Durkan. She will also sit on the group board.

Gillis joins Durkan from Fairview New Homes, where she was development director. Before this she was head of resource and development at South Cambridgeshire council.

Connaught
Contractor Connaught has promoted two managers to newly created directorship posts.

Cliff Parsons (pictured left) and Nick Hann have become directors for operations and new business development.

Job of the week

Name
Paul Eastwood
New job
Chief executive, Ridgehill Housing Association
Old job
Housing director, William Sutton Trust
What’s the best thing about the role?
The variety and knowing that it’s a job worth doing.
Any advice for people who want to get into the housing sector?
Get as wide an experience as possible, and don’t forget the importance of the customers.
Favourite book
On the Road by Jack Kerouac.
Favourite film
The Adventures of Robin Hood with Errol Flynn or Goodfellas.
Favourite song
Jumpin’ Jack Flash by the Rolling Stones.
Hobbies
Watching soccer, keeping fit, voluntary work and photography.
Housing situation?
I own a house in Hemel Hempstead, where I have lived since 1994.
Biggest challenge?
Balancing sometimes conflicting priorities, but that’s what makes the job so interesting. We all need challenges. I view most issues as opportunities, not threats.

Source

Housing Today