Sarah Dunkerley to step down as Director of Membership and Professional Development

CIH has announced that Sarah Dunkerley, Director of Membership and Professional Development, will be moving on from the organisation at the end of 2026.

Sarah has been a valued member of the CIH leadership team and has played a key role in strengthening the organisation's professional development offer, supporting members and learners, and helping to advance professionalism across the housing sector. 

During her time at CIH, Sarah has led work to enhance the value of membership, expand professional development opportunities and ensure housing professionals are equipped with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to meet the challenges facing the sector.

Sarah will remain in post until December and will continue to lead on membership and professional development over the coming months, supporting a smooth transition as CIH begins a recruitment process for her replacement. 

CIH Chief Executive Gavin Smart said: "Sarah has made an enormous contribution to CIH and the wider housing sector. Her passion for professionalism, learning and supporting housing professionals has been evident throughout her time with us, and I would like to thank her for everything she has achieved.

"While we will be very sorry to see Sarah leave, we wish her every success in the next stage of her career and look forward to celebrating her contribution before she departs later this year."

Sarah Dunkerley added: "CIH has been a hugely important part of my professional life and leaving is not a decision I have taken lightly. It has been a privilege to work alongside such talented colleagues and to support housing professionals across the sector. 

"I am proud of what we have achieved together and look forward to continuing this work over the coming months before handing over to my successor." 

A recruitment process will begin shortly, with further details to be shared in due course.