The Chief Executive of one of the largest housing associations in north-east England has announced his planned retirement at the end of this year.
Alan Smith, Chief Executive of believe housing, recently told colleagues that he will retire at the end of December 2026.
Alan became Chief Executive in April 2023, having been with the organisation from its establishment initially as County Durham Housing Group, which was set up in 2015 following the transfer of homes from Durham County Council.
Before becoming the Chief Executive, he was Executive Director of Investment, Growth and Performance.
Alan’s retirement will end a 42-year career in local government and housing, which began at Sedgefield District Council in 1984. During that time, he has been involved in major regeneration, local government and housing projects across County Durham, including the establishment of three housing associations.
believe housing, which manages more than 18,000 social and affordable homes and employs around 650 people, will begin the recruitment process for a new Chief Executive shortly.
Community groups across County Durham are being encouraged to apply for funding to help bring local people together, tackle inequalities and create opportunities for residents.
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Planning approval has paved the way for believe housing to deliver 90 affordable homes, bringing forward the next phase of a long-term regeneration scheme in County Durham.
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Planning permission has been granted for a £5.5m affordable housing development in Durham, marking a major step forward in the regeneration of the site and helping to meet housing need.
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believe housing has decided to go ahead with the demolition of Robinson House in Horden, County Durham.
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