FWB | Director of Housing & Asset Management - West Highland Housing Association

West Highland Housing Association [WHHA] was formed in 2000 through the amalgamation of Lorn and the Isles and Oban Housing Associations. It is a Registered Social Landlord and a Scottish Charity. It joined the Link Group in 2015 and it is a regulated subsidiary of Link. Link and WHHA have one of the largest developments in Scotland at Dunbeg, near Oban, with 300 new houses in Argyll recently completed and a new planned phase for 450 new properties.

Development is an important part of what we do, and we have over 1000 existing properties from in and around Oban up to Port Appin in the North, to Kilmelford in the South, and Taynuilt in the East. We have ongoing housing developments on the islands of Mull, Colonsay and Islay, and there is existing housing on Jura, Iona, Lismore, Luing and Tiree that we want to invest in, maintain and be part of wider community development.

The organisation provides much-needed accommodation in an area that is experiencing economic growth, set against a declared Housing Emergency. Strategic agencies including Argyll and Bute Council and Highlands and Islands Enterprise have ambitious plans for continued sustainable growth, but these plans rely on good quality housing and WHHA plays a critical role in the delivery of this. However, WHHA is much more than a delivery organisation; it is a well-viewed and respected partner by strategic agencies and other community delivery organisations.

The Opportunity

This is a fantastically exciting time, and period of change for West Highland Housing Association, as we look to evolve to become a more digitally led and customer-centric organisation. We are part of the 2nd largest Registered Social Landlord and Housing Group (Link) in Scotland and have recently taken on responsibility for an additional 300 properties to manage in Dunbeg, with a further phase planned to add 450 properties in the near future. As part of this expansion, we are looking to appoint a new Director of Housing and Asset Management, to join as part of our Strategic Leadership Team.

If you are looking to play a key role in the development, improvement and transformation of our business, as well as directly affect the lives of many of our tenants and enjoy living in one of Scotland’s most idyllic locations, this could be your dream role!

As part of a small but close-knit leadership team, you will have the opportunity to lead key change initiatives, including the continued digitisation of our services and the introduction of new, innovative value-add services. You will have the ability to truly influence the organisation, developing both the cultural and operating principles of the organisation, all with the intention to drive customer experience and deliver excellent services.

Candidate Requirements

You will be, or have the potential to be, an inspiring leader with a proven ability to strategically lead, coach, and develop high-performing teams within the housing sector. You will bring a strong commitment to delivering high-quality, customer-focused services and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

With extensive experience in the housing sector, you will have a deep understanding of the vital role housing plays in transforming lives and communities. You will demonstrate the ability to influence and shape the organisation, driving cultural and operational improvements to enhance service delivery and meet strategic objectives.

You will also possess most of the following:

• Proven experience in a senior leadership role, with responsibility for team performance in housing and/or asset management.
• In-depth knowledge of housing and/or asset management strategies, including the delivery of high-quality repairs and maintenance services.
• Strong understanding of regulatory compliance, including health and safety legislation, governance, and good practice in housing.
• A successful track record of developing and implementing tenant engagement strategies, with a focus on promoting customer involvement and delivering exceptional customer experiences.
• Expertise in strategic planning, financial management, and performance reporting within a regulated housing environment.
• Demonstrated ability to engage with stakeholders, build effective partnerships, and positively represent an organisation at a senior level.
• A proactive approach to driving innovation, including digitisation and the use of customer insights to improve services.

In return, we offer the successful candidate an excellent working environment, a supportive culture, and generous terms and conditions, including a competitive pension scheme. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact in a leadership role, delivering meaningful outcomes for tenants and communities.

This opportunity, based in Oban, can be performed on a hybrid basis, so the new Director will not necessarily need to relocate to Oban. However, there is a relocation package available if the new Director wishes to relocate.

If the role is undertaken on a hybrid basis, the successful candidate must possess exceptional communication and influencing skills, along with a proven track record of managing teams and stakeholders both virtually and in person.