HCA appoints interim CEO

Published by Max Salsbury for 24dash.com in Housing and also in Central Government

The Homes and Communities Agency has appointed an interim chief executive to stand in for Pat Ritchie who is leaving the post this month.

Richard Hill, currently the director of programmes and deputy chief executive of the HCA, will take up the role on a provisional basis until a permanent CEO has been appointed.

Ms Ritchie is quitting to take up the chief exec position at Newcastle City Council.

Mr Hill joined the HCA from the Housing Corporation. His previous roles include Head of Strategy and Policy at the National Health Service University and Head of Policy and Public Affairs at the New Opportunities Fund. Since 2003, he has also been a Fellow of the Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce.

Mr Hill, who will start his new role January 26, said: "I am pleased to take on leadership of the HCA during a challenging yet exciting period. My priority will be to ensure that the HCA meets its year end delivery targets, while business planning for the year ahead and making a strong contribution to the Government’s 2015/16 spending review."

The HCA's chair, Robert Napier, said: "Richard has a wealth of experience and a strong existing leadership role at the Agency, and as deputy chief executive he is the natural choice to lead the Agency throughout this crucial year end period."