Andrew Manning-Cox, who was co-opted to the board last year, has been appointed as the new group chair, while Arvinda Gohil joins as a non-executive member.

Mr Cox is a retired lawyer who spent four decades with Gowling WLG (UK) LLP. He takes over as group chair from Jonathan Lander after his five years in the role.

Mr Cox is an experienced non-executive director and holds positions at several companies and public bodies including Hereford Enterprise Zone (Skylon Park) and Thursfields Legal Limited.

He was most recently non-executive director at Malvern Hills Science Park and Central Technology Belt and is a member of the Independent Remuneration Committee of Worcestershire County Council.

Ms Gohil has worked in the charitable and not-for-profit sector for over 40 years and is currently chief executive of YMCA Central. She was previously chief executive of social action and advocacy charity Community Links, where she oversaw a major strategic partnership with national charity Catch 22.

She brings considerable experience of the housing sector, having served as membership services director at the National Housing Federation and held chief executive roles at two housing associations.

Andrew said: “It is a privilege to have been appointed as group chair and I look forward to continuing the strong leadership established by Jonathan. Sanctuary has achieved so much as an organisation and I am proud to contribute to our mission of building affordable homes and sustainable communities where people choose to live.”

Craig Moule, Sanctuary Group chief executive, said: “Andrew has been a major asset to Sanctuary since joining the Board and I am delighted he has been appointed as the new Group Chair. May I take the opportunity to place on record my personal appreciation for Jonathan’s work over the past five years and thank him for everything he has done. I would also like to welcome Arvinda to the Board. She brings a wealth of skills and experience and we look forward to drawing on her expertise.”