View from the governing board: Your March 2026 update from the chair

CIH’s governing board met in March for a timely review of CIH’s progress and priorities, as we approach the end of one financial year and look ahead to the next. We were also pleased to be joined by Carol McTaggart, chair of the Northern Ireland board, who attended the meeting as an observer. 

Presidential campaign update 

A highlight of the meeting was an update from our president, Julie Haydon, on her campaign, Rooted in Resilience. Julie shared the positive engagement she has experienced from members as she has travelled across the UK and Ireland and reflected on the value of connecting directly with housing professionals. The board was pleased to hear about plans to launch the campaign toolkit, with practical resources for housing colleagues to draw on (now available online). 

We also took the opportunity to thank Julie for her ongoing commitment and the significant time she has invested in the role, including the success of the Presidential Address and Charity Appeal in February. 

Chief executive’s update 

The board received the CEO’s report from Gavin Smart, which provided an overview of key developments since our last meeting. We discussed the challenging and evolving operating environment, including wider geopolitical factors, and the implications for the sector. The report also highlighted plans to strengthen the marketing of CIH’s products and services, aligned with our membership strategy, policy offer and forthcoming brand refresh. 

Strengthening our governance 

We welcomed a presentation from Eastside People, which has been supporting a review of our governance arrangements. It was encouraging to receive a strong overall assessment, while recognising that there are always opportunities to improve. The governance, ethics, renumeration and nominations (GERN) committee has been asked to take this work forward and bring back a proposed action plan to the noard. A central theme of our discussion was how we ensure that the member voice remains at the heart of our governance. 

Finance and risk management 

Looking ahead, the board approved the budget for 2026/27, which reflects CIH’s ambitions for the year ahead, particularly our focus on growing and sustaining membership. We also reviewed and approved the updated risk register. 

I would like to thank colleagues across CIH for the significant work involved in preparing these important documents. 

Policy and external affairs 

We were pleased to receive another strong update on CIH’s external influencing and engagement, with extensive parliamentary engagement and media coverage, including the successful March launch of the UK Housing Review in the House of Lords. My thanks to the team for maintaining CIH’s voice and profile across the sector. 

Regulatory and committee updates 

Finally, we were joined by Venetia Knight, CIH’s head of professional services, who provided an overview of updated regulatory principles and governance arrangements for the Awarding Organisation. We also received updates from our various committees and advisory boards, and I would like to extend my thanks to everyone who contributes their time and expertise to support this work.

Reflecting and looking ahead 

As always, the board remains focused on supporting CIH to deliver for its members and the wider housing sector, particularly in what continues to be a complex and challenging environment. 

My thanks as always to all trustees, colleagues, and volunteers for their continued insight, hard work and commitment as we grow the profession.

Written by John Hannigan, governing board chair