Honeycomb Group announces new interim housing lead

We are delighted to announce Steve Wilson as our interim Director of Housing Services.

Steve, who joined the Group in January, will lead our compliance, property services, housing and customer service teams. He takes on the role following the planned departure of Tim Sheail who left the Group on 31 March.

The internal move provides stability and project continuity across the organisation. Steve, who joined Honeycomb Group in January as Asset Management and Compliance Project Director, will continue to support the property services and compliance team as they continue to strengthen regulatory responsibilities.

Chief Executive Julie Guildford Smith said: “Steve is well-known in the sector for his ability to improve services and deliver on commitments for customers. He has integrated into the Group quickly and already has a solid understanding of our teams, services and most importantly, customers.

“Steve stepping into the role will enable our Group to progress recent regulatory work, continue service development and drive the organisation forward to a very positive future.”

Steve, an experienced housing professional, was initially brought in to strengthen the business’ asset management approach. He will now extend his areas of responsibility to the full housing services portfolio.

Steve is excited to continue his journey with the organisation at such ‘an exciting time’. He said: “We have a real opportunity to shape the direction of the Group’s future. I am looking forward to continuing to support Julie (Honeycomb’s Chief Exec) and the board, as we shape our asset management strategy and continue to provide great customer experience across our services.”

Familiar with the North-Staffordshire, Steve previously led Stoke City Council’s repairs subsidiary, Unitas, through its first two years of operation. After a recent role at Birmingham City Council, he is happy to be back working in Stoke-on-Trent.

“Everyone is so friendly here. I’ve found the Honeycomb Group teams really welcoming and the culture here is fantastic too. Everyone is so passionate about delivering excellent services to the people we support.”

When asked what he is most looking forward to in his new role, Steve said: “The initial focus is on compliance, ensuring our homes meet new guidelines and remain safe and in good order. Increasing the investment in these areas to make sure the highest standards are maintained will obviously be a very worthwhile project.

“I’m also excited to launch our new customer portal, Front Door, which will give customers the option to manage their home 24/7 from their phone. Staying up to date digitally is essential, as well as making sure our services continue to fit our customer’s needs.”

Find out more about Honeycomb Group here: https://www.honeycombgroup.org.uk/