Originally employed as a development officer in 1982, Jim was promoted to director in 1992 and finally re-designated as chief executive in 1998 following an organisational restructure. During his career Jim has been responsible for growing LHA’s housing stock from approximately 100 houses to its current level, with over 950 units in management.

Amongst his many achievements over the years, he took the greatest satisfaction from the results of Communities Scotland Inspection in 2005, where housing management and maintenance services were both rated excellent and awarded ‘A’ grades, and the custom design and build of the Association’s own office premises in its current central Motherwell location.

Fiona Tonner, Lanarkshire Housing Association’s chairperson, said: “Jim has made a huge contribution to the growth and development of Lanarkshire Housing Association. He led with a clear vision, professionalism and purpose but most of all, with integrity. Whilst we are disappointed that Jim has decided to retire, he leaves behind a business with a strong financial base, an experienced and motivated staff and a strategic framework that will assist us in meeting the many challenges that lie ahead.

“On behalf of the Management Committee and staff, I would like to thank him for the excellent support, guidance and advice he has provided to us all over many years and we wish him well in his retirement.”

Simon McManus, LHA’s corporate services director has been appointed as acting chief executive whilst a permanent replacement is recruited.