New chief for housing group
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AFFORDABLE housing provider Albyn Group has appointed experienced businesswoman and third sector specialist Lisa Buchanan as its new chief executive.
She takes on the lead role at the group, which comprises Albyn Housing Society, Albyn Enterprises Ltd and Highland Residential Ltd, following the departure of long-serving chief executive, Calum Macaulay, after more than 20 years in post.
“This is a fresh and exciting opportunity to build on the success and high standing of Albyn Group, which Calum and the team have built over the past three decades," she said.
“I am always ambitious for the organisations I work with, and I am eager to make Albyn’s vision to see everyone housed in affordable quality homes within sustainable communities a reality. I also relish a challenge, so I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues to strike new partnerships that drive innovation and deliver bold solutions that meet the housing needs of the area.”
Raised in the Highlands, she joins the society from Buchanan Shaw Consulting where she is a partner specialising in advising third sector organisations and small businesses on organisational development.
Previously, she was Northern Constabulary's strategic diversity adviser before five years as chief executive of Cantraybridge College. She also spent a short period as manager of people and culture at Parklands Care Homes, prior to taking maternity leave, and was a member of the board of North Highland College UHI.
Her achievements have seen her shortlisted for the Institute of Directors’ third sector director of the year award, and nominated as Scottish social enterprise champion of the year.
Her appointment comes at a time of change for the board, which has just named businesswoman and Highland Council's SNP leader Maxine Smith and retired businessman and Albyn tenant Ian Fosbrooke, as joint-chairs of the group.
Both welcomed the new appointment.
Councillor Smith, who has been a voluntary board member for 14 years, said: “Lisa has relevant third sector experience, enthusiasm and strategic vision, making her the ideal individual to take us into this new chapter for Albyn Housing Society and its subsidiaries.
“It is an exciting time for the organisation. Not only are we ambitious to build on our heritage as a leading registered social landlord for over 40 years – we must focus on the sustainability of our older housing stock as well as future builds, in an ever challenging environment.”
Mr Fosbrooke added: “By developing new revenue streams that enable us to invest in the communities we serve, Albyn can ensure the people of the Highlands have access to quality affordable housing for decades to come.
“Lisa will play a central role in shaping this future with us – with her extensive third sector experience and business acumen, I’m really excited to see what this holds.”
