Stephen Lodge takes up the Westward reins
We are delighted to welcome Stephen Lodge as Westward Housing Group’s new chief executive.
Stephen joins Westward from Abri where he worked for eight years as executive director of development and strategic asset management. Prior to working at Abri he had held director roles at The Guinness Partnership and Aster. He succeeds Barbara Shaw as Westward chief executive, following her retirement after 12 years leading the organisation.
Stephen’s career spans more than 30 years. He began working in direct access night shelters for the homeless. His experience has been built with a range of housing associations and a local authority, where he has held roles in housing management, strategy and policy, development, asset management, planned investment and response repairs.
Stephen is a member of the Chartered Institute of Housing’s regional group; as well as Homes for the South West. He is a former board member of Bron Afon and of 1625 Independent People. He is also a former chair of Building Better.
Stephen will lead Westward as it prepares to launch its 2025-30 strategic plan.
Speaking of his appointment, Stephen said, ‘I’m delighted to have joined Westward at such a pivotal time. I’m very much looking forward to building on the strong foundations of the organisation and working with colleagues across the business to continue to deliver great customer-centred services.”
Westward owns and manages more than 7,500 homes across Devon and Cornwall and serves more than 18,000 customers.