Aspire Housing appoints new Executive Director of Finance

Aspire Housing appoints new Executive Director of Finance

Andrew Palmer has 18 years’ experience in the social housing sector through a number of senior management positions. He will step into the Executive Director role early this year following the retirement of Mark Thrasher.

Having initially joined Aspire Housing in 2021 as Director of Financial Services, Andrew has a range of experience leading large finance teams, managing risk, and a strong record in transformation and modernising processes.

Andrew said: “I’m delighted to take on this new role with Aspire, and I’m looking forward to more closely supporting the Executive Team and the Board to make a positive difference in Newcastle-under-Lyme and beyond. One of my key priorities in the role will be looking at how we can better use technology to streamline processes and continuously improve the way we work.

“The biggest challenge we face in our sector right now is the increased cost-of-living and understanding how this will impact not just our business, but our partners, our colleagues, and our customers. In the coming year we will be looking at new ways we can support our customers, maximise value for money, and understand how we can best utilise funds to provide much needed support in our communities.”

Sinéad Butters, Chief Executive of Aspire Housing, commented: “We’re excited to welcome Andrew into his new position, where he will be leading on our approach to financial planning and strategy. He’s made a real impact since joining the business, and he will now be instrumental in supporting us to fund new homes, improvements to our existing homes, and the vital services we carry out in the community.

“On behalf of all of us at Aspire, I would like to thank Mark Thrasher for his work over the past four years. We wish him a happy retirement and all the best for the future.”