Habinteg appoints Martin Warhurst as permanent CEO | Latest news

Habinteg Housing Association has appointed Martin Warhurst as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Prior to his new position, Martin was the accessible housing specialist’s interim CEO for 14 months. During that time, he led great progress in the delivery of key priorities at the association, including an improvement programme for its repairs service and development of its data, digital and technology strategy.

Chair of Habinteg’s Board, Eleanor Southwood, said: “The Board is very excited about Habinteg’s future under Martin’s leadership as he works with the Executive Management Team to take forward our new corporate strategy.

Building on progress

“We look forward to seeing the organisation building on its unique focus, keeping our tenants’ diverse experiences at the forefront of our work, and driving engagement in access and inclusion in the housing sector and beyond.”

Martin said: “I’m delighted that Habinteg's Board have entrusted me with the fantastic opportunity to lead such an amazing organisation, and I look forward to building on the progress that we have made over the last year or so.

“I want to ensure that we provide the best possible homes and services to our tenants and to play my part in promoting what we are truly passionate about - accessible and inclusive housing.

“Habinteg is a unique organisation and with the launch of our new strategy later this year, I know that I’m working with an ambitious Board and with colleagues who will deliver.  I’m thrilled that I’ll be here to play a pivotal role in its future.” 

Martin has over 26 years’ experience in the social housing sector. He joined Habinteg – which includes the leading inclusive design and access consultancy, the Centre for Accessible Environments – in April 2023 as Chief Financial Officer. 

Decades of industry experience

Previously, he was Executive Director of Resources at Wakefield District Housing Association and Chief Executive of Martin House Children’s Hospice.

He has also held the posts of Director of Finance, and Corporate Services and Managing Director at Cestria Community Housing Association, which was then part of the Isos Group (now Karbon Homes).

A Chartered Accountant by trade, Martin has also worked within the social housing teams at KPMG and Grant Thornton. 

Currently the Chair of the Board of Salix Homes, a housing association in Salford, Martin has also held Board positions at Leeds Federated Housing Association and Broadacres Housing Association. 

Top image: Martin Warhurst.