The new chair of the board has been confirmed as Craig MacDonald, who brings more than 30 years of experience in finance, investment and governance to the organisation. He will be joined by Ian Pinches, who takes on the role of chair of the Finance & Audit Committee, adding further depth of expertise and oversight.

Craig’s career includes senior roles at major institutions, including Aberdeen Investments, where he served as global head of fixed income overseeing assets of £135 billion. His early career saw him lead credit ratings for local authorities and public bodies at the Audit Commission and Standard & Poor’s.

His appointment reflects Blackwood’s ongoing focus on strong governance, strategic development, and inclusive living - values that have defined its work since its founding by Dr Margaret Blackwood MBE in 1972.

Craig said: “I’m honoured to be taking up the role of chair. Blackwood plays a unique role in providing housing and care that enables people to live independently and with dignity.

“I look forward to supporting the board and executive team to build on the strong foundations already in place and to help further our work in innovation, inclusion, and sustainable growth.”

Craig succeeds Julie McDowell, who steps down after six years on the board, including four years as chair. During her tenure, Julie encouraged the organisation’s commitment to innovation, including the recent launch of the Blackwood Blueprint for Independent Living.

Reflecting on her time in the role, Julie said: “As I step down from the board, I want to pay tribute to the outstanding people at Blackwood who bring energy and enthusiasm to our mission of helping people to live their lives to the full. It has been my privilege to support them through the challenges of the past few years. The social housing sector continues to face a difficult operating environment.

“Craig has outstanding skill and experience and I am pleased that he has been appointed to steer Blackwood going forward.”

Jason MacGilp, Blackwood’s chief executive, welcomed both Craig and Ian to the board and thanked Julie McDowell for her leadership of the governing body.

“Julie has made a very significant contribution to Blackwood’s development over the last six years,” he said.

“She has also steered the organisation through recent regulatory and financial challenges over the last couple of years with great focus, skill and commitment. She leaves Blackwood with thanks from the management team and the board, and appreciation for her commitment to the long-term best interests of the organisation and the customers we serve.

“Craig MacDonald’s appointment brings additional strategic financial management expertise and governance perspective to the board as we look ahead to the next phase of our journey.

“Ian Pinches’s appointment will further strengthen our governance and financial oversight, ensuring we continue to plan effectively and deliver long-term impact.”

Ian Pinches is a qualified accountant who has held non-executive roles across the regulated public sector for almost two decades, spanning housing, the NHS, and emergency services. He previously served as deputy chief executive and finance director at a London-based housing and care provider and also founded and ran an award-winning hospitality business for more than ten years.

As chair of the Finance & Audit Committee, Ian will oversee financial planning, audit assurance, and internal controls, helping to maintain transparency, performance, and sustainability.

Ian said: “Blackwood’s person-centred approach to housing and care is well known across the sector, and its commitment to enabling independent living truly resonates with me.

“I’m pleased to be joining the board and look forward to supporting the organisation’s ambitions and ensuring it continues to deliver quality services that make a meaningful difference to people’s lives.”