Help shape the future of affordable rural housing

After a hugely rewarding period as Chair of English Rural, I will complete my term in April 2027.

We are therefore looking for an experienced and committed leader to become our next Chair.

English Rural is a specialist provider of affordable rural homes. We own and manage around 1,600 homes in nearly 200 villages, principally across the South of England. By working closely with local communities, we help ensure that homes remain affordable for local people, not just now but for generations to come.

This is an exciting time to join us. Our recent regulatory inspection reaffirmed our strong governance (G1) and financial viability (V1), alongside our first consumer grading of C2. The Board is also refreshing our Business Strategy for the next phase of growth, giving the new Chair an early opportunity to help shape our direction.

We are looking for someone with proven experience of chairing a board, committee or organisation. You will be able to provide clear strategic leadership, build an effective and supportive relationship with our Chief Executive and executive team, and encourage constructive discussion around the Board table. Sound judgement, strong communication and a commitment to good governance will be essential.

Experience of social housing or the not-for-profit sector would be valuable, as would an understanding of rural communities, regulated organisations or customer-focused services. However, these are desirable rather than essential. Above all, we are looking for someone who shares our commitment to helping rural communities thrive.

The role involves around five Board meetings each year, committee attendance and regular contact with the Chief Executive. The overall commitment is typically around 25 days a year. Meetings are a mixture of in-person and online, with at least three Board meetings each year generally held in London. The role is remunerated at £7,000 per year, and the successful candidate will receive a full induction and planned handover.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and particularly encourage interest from groups currently under-represented on our Board. We know that different experiences and perspectives make for stronger decisions and better outcomes for the communities we serve.

Applications close at 12 noon on 14 September 2026. Full details of how to apply are included in the pack.

If our purpose speaks to you, I hope you will consider joining us and leading English Rural into its next chapter.

Mark Pragnell
Chair, English Rural