Homes England chairman Sir Edward Lister is to step down to focus on his permanent role as chief strategic advisor to Boris Johnson.
Lister has been chairman of Homes England for three years. In July, he took a leave of absence to work for Johnson.
Simon Dudley will continue in his role as acting interim chair and senior independent director while the board recruits a new chair.
Homes England chief executive Nick Walkley said: “I confirm Sir Edward Lister has informed the secretary of state for housing, Robert Jenrick MP, that he is stepping down as chairman of the Homes England Board permanently to focus on his new role as prime minister Boris Johnson’s chief strategic advisor.
“I’d like to thank him for his huge contribution to the agency, particularly during a period that has seen us expand rapidly.”
Interim chair Simon Dudley said: “Sir Edward has worked tirelessly to ensure Homes England has the expertise it needs, helping to double the number of staff in just 18 months, and by strengthening its board to make it more resilient and diverse.
“We are all incredibly grateful of the support Sir Edward has given Homes England and its partners over the past three years, and I am honoured to continue to stand in while we look to recruit a new Homes England chair.”
Lister was previously chief of staff to Boris Johnson as mayor of London between 2011 and 2016. He was leader of Wandsworth Council for 19 years, and chairman of the Old Oak Common Development Corporation.
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