Octopus Capital has appointed Sarah Thomas as a non-executive director to NewArch Homes, its for-profit registered provider of social housing.
Thomas is the chief executive of Richmond Housing Partnership and chair of social housing charity HACT, she has previously held executive roles at Peabody, Catalyst Housing and the Housing Ombudsman, as well as senior positions at Eurostar.
NewArch Homes is funded through long-term investment from investors who are motivated to deliver good quality affordable housing. This investment is managed by Octopus, which also manages NewArch Homes.
This structure combines private sector agility with the necessary regulatory standards for social housing, ensuring homes are well-managed and provide real, lasting benefits to residents and local communities.
Jack Burnham, head of affordable housing, Octopus Capital said: “We’ve made strong progress over the past 18 months, growing our portfolio, expanding the team and deepening partnerships across the sector. Strengthening NewArch’s board with experienced voices like Sarah’s ensures we stay focused on our mission – to deliver affordable homes that have a long-term difference on communities.”
Elizabeth Austerberry, chair of NewArch Homes, added: “Sarah’s leadership experience across the housing sector, combined with a strong track record of transformation and delivery, will be invaluable. Sarah understands the pressures facing housing associations today, and brings deep insight into how we can continue to deliver homes that meet people’s needs.”
Thomas, said: “I’ve long admired the mission and momentum behind NewArch and Octopus Capital’s Affordable Housing strategy. The team is passionate about making a positive impact, not just by delivering more homes, but by doing so in a way that creates long-term partnerships and delivers meaningful outcomes for residents. I’m excited to bring my experience to the table and help scale an offering that supports the future of affordable housing across the country.”
The Octopus Affordable Housing Fund has raised over £240m to date and is targeting £1bn over time. It invests long-term capital into the delivery and ownership of new affordable homes, working in partnership with housing associations and local authorities.
NewArch Homes Is one of the 10 largest for-profit registered providers in England and currently has 475 completed affordable homes with a further 400 under construction across the UK and is expanding rapidly to meet growing demand.
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