Geraldine, who is chief executive of Bradford-based housing group Incommunities and has been CIH vice president for the past 12 months, takes over the role from Steve Stride.

Julie Fadden, chief executive of The SLH Group in Liverpool, was elected as new vice president by CIH members last month and her appointment was also confirmed at last week’s AGM.

CIH chief executive Terrie Alafat said: “Geraldine will have a hugely important role to play championing the interests of CIH members and housing professionals. She has done a great job as vice president so i know she can do the same as president.”

She added: “I’d like to thank outgoing president Steve Stride. He has been a fantastic ambassador for CIH and our members and a real champion of the need for greater diversity in housing leadership through our Presidential Commission.”

Geraldine has chosen to raise money for the Prince’s Trust during her year in office. The organisation supports young people to get their lives working, whether that means accessing education, employment or training. Geraldine will be kicking off her fund-raising efforts next month when she takes part in the Great North Swim on Lake Windermere with colleagues from Incommunities and CIH director of membership and education Judy Waugh. Donate online.

She said: “I am proud to become CIH President having worked in the sector for over 30 years alongside many passionate and dedicated colleagues, all working to make a difference. The coming year is set to be an extremely challenging one for us all. Working with Steve Stride and CIH members over the past year has given me a real insight into the issues and opportunities facing CIH. I am looking forward to building on Steve’s good work. He has brought a great deal of energy and enthusiasm as your president and with your generous support raised many thousands of pounds for the Trussell Trust.”

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