Govanhill Housing Association to welcome Jennifer Cairns as CEO in 2026

Jennifer will take up the post in early 2026 following the retirement of John Quinn at the end of this year.

Jennifer joins the organisation from West of Scotland Housing Association, where she has worked for over a decade, including five years as director of corporate services.

Jennifer will provide community-focused leadership as the Association continues its mission to deliver high-quality housing and services for the communities of Govanhill and Merrylee.

Keith Kintrea, the chair of Govanhill HA, said: “I am pleased that the Association has secured the appointment of Jennifer Cairns as our new chief executive and both the management committee and I look forward to working with her. She brings many years of experience working at a senior level in the housing association sector, combined with excellent knowledge of the area and enthusiasm for the role.

“This appointment will allow us to build on the work of our outgoing director John Quinn, who I wish to thank on behalf of the management committee. John has overseen key development projects for the Association and the work of Govanhill Community Development Trust, as well as leading the Association through the COVID-19 pandemic. We wish him well in his retirement.”

Jennifer Cairns said: “I am delighted to be appointed chief executive of Govanhill Housing Association and build on the great work that has been delivered during John Quinn’s time in the role. This role at Govanhill Housing Association is an opportunity for me to lead the staff teams to continue to make a real difference to the people and communities in Govanhill and Merrylee. I am really looking forward to starting in the role and meeting my new colleagues, the management committee and Govanhill Housing Association customers.”

Outgoing director John Quinn added: “It has been a real privilege to work for the Association over the last seven years. The chief executive role is one where no two days are the same, and you can make a real difference. I have really enjoyed serving the people of Govanhill and Merrylee, both diverse and vibrant communities in the heart of Glasgow. I wish Jennifer every success in the post.”