Chief Executive

GatenbySanderson; North East; On-site; GBP 179,000 - 219,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Car allowance

Career average local government pen­s­

Job summary

Believe housing, one of the North East's largest housing associations, manages 18,000 homes, supports 22,000 customers and employs around 650 colleagues across County Durham and surrounding communities. With turnover over £91 million and a strong people-centred culture, we are entering an exciting new chapter.

We are seeking an exceptional Chief Executive to provide strategic leadership, champion our values and deliver our Target Operating Model, guiding digital transformation and long-term

Qualifications

• Track record of delivering transformation in housing or regulated sectors.
• Strong governance credentials and commercial acumen.
• Experience leading high-performing teams and navigating complex stakeholder environments.

Job description

Salary £198,986 plus £8,767 car allowance and career average local government pension scheme

At believe housing, we believe in life without barriers.

As one of the North East's largest housing associations, we manage more than 18,000 homes, support 22,000 customers and employ around 650 colleagues across County Durham and surrounding communities. With a turnover exceeding £91 million, a strong G1/V2 regulatory rating, and a reputation for an outstanding people-centred culture, we are entering an exciting new chapter.

We are seeking an exceptional leader to become our next Chief Executive.

This is an opportunity to lead a successful, values-driven organisation that combines commercial strength with a clear social purpose: improving customers' lives through healthy, affordable homes and thriving communities. Over recent years, we have invested significantly in homes, community initiatives, energy efficiency and new housing development. Now, we are embarking on an ambitious transformation programme that will redefine how we deliver services, embrace digital innovation and ensure long-term financial sustainability.

Working closely with our Board, Executive Management Team and stakeholders across the region, you will provide strategic leadership and be a visible advocate for believe housing. You will champion our values, drive performance and lead the successful delivery of our new Target Operating Model.

We are looking for an inspiring and authentic leader with a track record of delivering transformation, building high-performing teams and navigating complex stakeholder environments. As an established strategic leader within housing or a comparably regulated and community-focused environment, you will bring commercial acumen, strong governance credentials and a passion for making a positive difference to people's lives.

Closing date: 9am on Monday 21 September 2026.