Neil Townsend

Start date

January 2020

Background and experience

A large part of Neil’s career has been spent working for a board of governance, and he has an understanding of how complex relationships need to inter-play with each other in order for governance to be truly effective. Neil appreciates the importance of interaction between NEDs and the executive employees and with stakeholders. Neil has worked extensively to lead from the front and establish a workplace culture that is inclusive and supportive, which has translated clearly into excellent customer service.

Neil worked as the Chief Executive of a Cancer Charity across Lancashire & Cumbria and, prior to this, worked in the housing sector with a career spanning 25 years. His experience has led to a broad understanding of Housing, Health and Community Services and the endless list of challenges that exist. He believes more than ever that the housing sector should be bold whilst maintaining a great organisational culture, keeping core landlord services and excellent customer service firmly in focus. At the same time, he appreciates the need to be innovative, take calculated risks and create opportunities that benefit tenants and the wider communities.

Skills

Neil’s skills include performance management, strategic policy development, budget setting, risk management, equality and diversity, analytical thinking, leadership and the charitable sector.

Neil is also the Chair of our Community Investment Working Party.

Personal interests

Neil enjoys a number of hobbies, including walking and running, cooking and indulging in his petrol head with his classic car. However, amateur theatre remains his life-long passion. Neil can be seen performing in or directing musicals for Blackpool Operatic Players at the Grand Theatre. He has managed to combine his love of theatre and his work experience by becoming a volunteer trustee of the Dukes theatre in Lancaster.