Lizzie takes over from Angus, who has served as chair since 2023 and will remain a member of Cairn’s board. John Duncan has been appointed as vice chair.

The changes come as Cairn introduces a new governance framework following an independent review. The revised structure includes a new Corporate Committee, chaired by Nigel Chapman, and a Homes, Communities and Customers Committee, chaired by John Duncan. These replace the former Audit & Performance Committee and Asset Management & Development Committee respectively.

The AGM also formally welcomed Cairn’s five newest board members – Claire Blacka, Douglas Aitken, Karen Fitzsimons, Mairi Keddie and Mark McCabe – who bring extensive experience across housing, construction, governance, regulation, audit and organisational improvement.

Cairn chief executive Audrey Simpson paid tribute to Angus for his contribution as chair and his decade of service on the board.

She said: “Angus has made an enormous contribution to Cairn since joining our board in 2016. As chair, he has provided calm, thoughtful and principled leadership, always keeping our tenants and communities at the heart of decision-making.

“I would like to thank Angus personally for his support, advice and encouragement during my time as chief executive. We are delighted that he will remain on the board and that Cairn will continue to benefit from his considerable experience and insight.”

During his time as chair, Angus has helped guide Cairn through a period of significant change, including strengthening its leadership and governance arrangements, increasing opportunities for tenant involvement and continuing investment in new and existing homes across Scotland.

Lizzie Crawford, chair of Cairn Housing Association, said: “It is a privilege to take on the role of chair and I would like to thank Angus for the leadership and commitment he has shown to Cairn over the past three years.

“I am looking forward to working with my fellow board members, Audrey and colleagues across Cairn as we develop our next business plan and continue our focus on providing great homes and services for our tenants and communities.”

The AGM also marked the retirement of Laurence Casserly, who steps down after 10 years on Cairn’s board. Steven Travers has also stood down from the board following almost seven years of service. Cairn thanked both Laurence and Steven for their commitment and for the experience, insight and valuable contribution they have brought to the organisation during their time as board members.

Angus Lamont said: “It has been a real privilege to serve as chair of Cairn and I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together over the past three years.

“I’d like to thank my fellow board members, Audrey and everyone across Cairn for their support during my time as chair. I’m pleased to be continuing as a board member and look forward to supporting Lizzie as she takes on the role and Cairn moves into its next chapter.”

The leadership changes come at an important time for Cairn as it develops its new business plan for 2027-2030. Feedback from over 400 tenants is helping to shape the plan, with excellent repairs and maintenance, investment in existing homes and affordable homes and rents emerging as their three leading priorities.