This marks an exciting milestone for SHN, building on a successful decade-long partnership with CDC and ensuring the continuation of invaluable services for the Scottish social housing sector.

The acquisition is the result of over a year of meticulous planning to guarantee a seamless transition for CDC clients and SHN members, while paving the way for new opportunities.

Andrea Finkel-Gates, CEO of SHN, said: “This is a tremendous opportunity for both the sector and SHN. The Validation and Consultancy services provided by CD Consultancy will remain accessible to all landlords, preserving the vital work Christine Dugan has delivered over the years. This acquisition also enables SHN to expand the range of services we offer to members, using our expertise and influence to help landlords improve services for their tenants.”

Ross Morris has been appointed head of validation and consultancy at SHN, leading CD Consultancy services. A familiar face to SHN members, Ross previously held the role of Service Improvement Manager (Data Insights) since 2021 and brings extensive experience from frontline and strategic roles in Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) and local authorities.

Ross shared his enthusiasm about his new role, adding: “I’m thrilled to lead CD Consultancy as SHN’s Head of Validation and Consultancy. Over the past six months, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Christine gaining invaluable training and guidance. We already have a packed schedule for April and May, and demand is strong for the rest of 2025 and even into 2027. If you’re interested in discussing our consultancy and validation services, get in touch—our services are available to both SHN members and non-members.”

As Ross transitions to his new post, SHN welcomed Max Scotto as Service Improvement Manager (Data Insights) in March. Max brings a wealth of experience in housing, including frontline roles and a secondment with the Scottish Housing Regulator. This addition strengthens SHN’s benchmarking and data insights offering.

The acquisition represents a major step forward for SHN, enhancing their service provision while maintaining the excellence and dedication CDC has long delivered. To ensure continuity during this transition, validation and consultancy services will continue under the CDC branding throughout 2025.

Further staffing changes reflect SHN’s growth during this period, including Leza Lafferty’s appointment as Service Improvement Manager in February, and Tony Donohoe taking on the Housing Options Learning and Development Officer role, previously held by Leza.

With SHN’s 30th anniversary on the horizon, this acquisition marks an exciting new chapter in their commitment to supporting the housing sector and improving services for tenants across Scotland.