Scottish Churches Housing Action (SCHA) has announced the appointment of David Cressey to succeed the long-standing chief executive Alastair Cameron on his retirement.

Currently programme manager with Forest Enterprise Scotland, David has a background in housing, initially in Lincolnshire, and subsequently with Scottish Borders Council, where he worked on strategy for housing, economic development and community planning.

He holds a postgraduate diploma in housing, and a Masters in Business Administration and is also an active member of Selkirk Baptist Church.

“David has what we were looking for in the post,” said Rev Graeme Wilson, convener of SCHA. “He has the right qualifications and experience, but above all it was his vision and enthusiasm that shone through when we met him.”

David, who will take up the role in March, said: “I am absolutely delighted and honoured to be asked to serve as chief executive for Scottish Churches Housing Action. I know much has already been done in Scotland to tackle the scourge of homelessness but much more still needs to be accomplished if we are see our vision of ending homelessness become a reality.

“I believe the church is at the heart of that endeavour and I look forward to working with partners across the churches to support ongoing work, developing new projects that support homeless people and ensuring that every person in Scotland has a secure and affordable place they can call home.”

Alastair Cameron added: “Having served since the establishment of SCHA in 1994, I’m delighted with this appointment. SCHA has a great track record in stimulating work among the churches to support homeless people across Scotland. I’m proud to have been part of that, and look forward to seeing the work flourish in David’s hands.”