A fond farewell as Manningham Housing Association Chair steps down

The Chief Executive of Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has paid tribute to the Bradford-based organisation’s Chair, Barrington Billings, who is stepping down at the end of December after more than six and a half years in the role.

Mr Billings has more than three decades of experience in the housing sector and is currently Head of Asset Management and Development at Tuntum Housing Association in Nottingham.

He is a former President of the Chartered Institute of Housing.

Lee Bloomfield said Mr Billings has played “an absolutely pivotal role in enabling MHA to establish a reputation as one of the most forward-thinking housing associations in the country.”

He continued: “Barrington joined us in 2017 following a regulatory downgrade. We needed a leader who could bring strength in governance and a unique blend of experience in both housing and non-executive roles. Barrington emerged as the beacon we sought, providing us with the guidance and expertise needed to navigate through challenges and steer MHA towards success.

“Under his direction, we have achieved the highest possible gradings from the Regulator of Social Housing and become the first housing association to be officially accredited for our work in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion – alongside numerous other awards.”

Mr Bloomfield added: “Barrington’s journey with MHA has been marked by a dedication to excellence, an unwavering commitment to governance best practices, and a wealth of experience that has truly enriched our organisation.

“We cannot adequately express our gratitude for Barrington’s dedication to MHA and the broader community. As we say farewell, we reflect on the positive impact he has had on our organisation and the countless lives touched by his leadership. His legacy of excellence, integrity and compassion will continue to inspire us in the years to come.”

Barrington Billings said: “Establishing our Community Investment Strategy and the range of community based initiatives that followed were proud highlights for me.

“Winning awards and accolades are always welcome, but these are merely recognitions of the critical grass roots work MHA have been doing in local communities.

“Of course, none of this success would have been possible without the solid and transformational leadership of our CEO Lee Bloomfield, Deputy CEO Ulfat Hussain and Director of Finance and Resources John Kent.  Lee and Ulfat have both been there from the start of my time as Chair and stood with me shoulder to shoulder in the challenging early days of putting our house in order.

“The success of MHA could not have happened without our staff, our tenants and customers. The Customer Panel, led by MHA tenant Cath Bacon, has also been instrumental in scrutinising, reviewing and improving the services we provide.”

He added: “I am delighted to be handing over the reins to Rupert Pometsey our current Vice-Chair, who I regard as one of the best in the country.

“I will leave knowing that the organisation is in great shape and in good hands, ensuring that the vision and legacy of its founding members – in providing excellent housing and related services to local communities – will endure.”