Choice, one of Northern Ireland’s largest social housing providers, has strengthened its leadership team with five senior appointments – including three newly created roles – to increase the senior team from thirteen to eighteen across the group.
Choice currently owns and maintains 14,000 properties across the region, with the key positions coming at an exciting period of growth for the organisation.
Choice
Joining from Citibank to become Head of Facilities Management, where he will oversee operational contracts, is Ken Ryan, whilst Shona Burke joins Choice as Head of Customer Services. She brings extensive operational leadership experience across the retail, customer service and regulated service sectors.
Deirdre Steele (Head of Maple & May), Leeanne Magee (Regional Head of Tenant & Client Services) and Chris McGrath (Head of Legal Services) are all internal promotions.
Announced during the group’s 50th anniversary year, these key appointments highlight a clear focus on building the skills and leadership required to deliver high-quality homes and tenant services.
Welcoming the news, Michael McDonnell, Choice Group Chief Executive, said: “These appointments represent a significant step forward for Choice as we continue to grow and evolve as an organisation. Strengthening our leadership team ensures we are well placed to meet growing demand, maintain consistently high standards, and deliver for communities in Northern Ireland.
“We are particularly pleased to welcome Ken and Shona to Choice, both of whom bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective roles. At the same time, the internal promotions of Deirdre, Leeanne and Chris reflect the strength of talent we have within the organisation, and our commitment to developing and recognising our people.
“Making these appointments during an important milestone of celebrating 50 years, adds an extra sense of significance,” he added. “It is an opportunity not only to reflect on how far we have come, but to look ahead with confidence as we invest in our people, services and social housing.”
With Deirdre Steele taking up her new role as Head of Maple and May – Choice’s private rental subsidiary Company – the company has recruited a new manager, Stuart Parker to oversee the day-to-day operations. Maple and May recently announced plans to develop 300 new affordable rented homes across Northern Ireland over the next five years, delivering the first ‘Affordable Rent Homes’ scheme in partnership with the Department for Communities (DfC).
