Please find below our press release about the appointment of John Bowker as our new Chief Executive. He will join us in July.

South Manchester-based housing association and community business Southway Housing Trust has announced the appointment of John Bowker as its new Chief Executive.

John will join Southway in July, leaving his current role as Executive Director of Operations at Stockport Homes Group to replace Southway’s long-standing Chief Executive Karen Mitchell who retires this year after 17 years with the company.

John brings 25 years’ experience of working in a variety of roles for several housing associations across the north west during his career.

Since starting with Stockport Homes in 2017, he has been responsible for the maintenance and investment of homes, new build developments, profit-for-purpose projects, and neighbourhood services.

John is also Chair of JV North, a partnership between housing associations and local councils across the north west to help address the housing crisis.

John will lead Southway’s new strategy with a focus on community investment, quality landlord services, building new affordable homes and tenant engagement.

John said: “I grew up in Manchester and have a deep-rooted commitment to its communities and I look forward to working with Southway and its tenants to set priorities for the years ahead to ensure the best possible services for customers and new homes that meet local needs.

“It is a real honour and privilege to take over this role from Karen who has done so much to successfully lead the organisation from its inception through to the present day.”

The appointment follows a selection process led by the Chair of the Southway Housing Trust’s Board, Hazel Makinson.

Hazel Makinson, Chair of Southway Housing Trust’s Board added: “John will be a great fit for Southway. He has a strong passion for social housing and working with tenants and communities, as well as an impressive track record of staff engagement.

“He is committed to the vision, values and objectives of Southway and will bring a lot of experience and new ideas to the Trust.”