Ben takes up the post from his position as finance business analyst at Castle Rock Edinvar, part of Places for People.

He has wide knowledge of housing sector operations gained through previous roles in housing management, lettings, maintenance and repairs. He has a masters degree in politics from Glasgow University and is also qualified in accountancy.

Commenting on the appointment, Richard Jennings, managing director at Castle Rock Edinvar, said: “To meet the needs of current and future customers we need integrated, innovative and connected thinking across everything we do. We understand the value of innovation and new technology in driving improvements in how we serve customers, and to meet future challenges including climate change.

“We have created this role to provide the necessary space needed for research, evaluation and making connections that could improve the way we do things.”

Mr Jennings added: “Ben has first-hand experience and a depth of insight across all our operations, and has the intellect and skills to not only evaluate new ideas, but to articulate the needs of the business.

“Senior managers now have the advantage of tapping into fresh thinking that the role was created to foster. He has already hit the ground running and is managing a number of exciting projects.”

Ben is currently part of a UK-wide project to assess the opportunities of Building Information Management (BIM) at scale across a diverse set of operating businesses and across the entire lifecycle of property assets. He is also working with a start-up company selected through the Places for People Innovation Lab to refine their proposition, and is looking at how to improve penetration of low carbon technologies into the group’s housing stock.

Ben said: “This is the first time an innovation lead role has existed within Castle Rock Edinvar, and I am delighted to have the opportunity to draw on my operational and accountancy experience, and my passion for technology, to help us make smarter decisions based on data and to research new ideas.

“Housing today requires a wider palette of expertise to keep up with advancements in technology, meet regulatory requirements and deliver on the day job of creating and managing places where people want to live.”