Laurice Ponting has been appointed chief executive by HouseMark, taking up the post on 1 October.

She is set to replace founding CEO Ross Fraser, who set up the company in 1999.

Laurice joins the company from Genesis Housing Group, where as executive director of communities, she overhauled customer services and achieved a turnaround in core performance.

Mrs Ponting said: “I’m thrilled to be joining HouseMark at such a pivotal time for the housing sector. We need to adapt to a new and dynamic operating environment, focusing our efforts on achieving more value from the resources we have to invest in new and existing homes and improving services. The business data and intelligence provided by HouseMark is making a significant contribution in helping the sector achieve these goals. Building on Ross’ legacy, I’m looking forward to working with the Board, colleagues and partners to provide the very best services and products to help our members succeed.”

Her extensive experience of housing in both local authorities and housing associations has seen her previously take up roles as chief executive at Mercian Housing Association and head of housing strategy at Sandwell Council.

Her post with Sandwell Council allowed her to commission one of the first ALMOs. Laurice has also chaired Birmingham Social Housing Partnership, been a member of the NHF Regional Committee and board member of the Aston Reinvestment Trust, a community finance company.

David Orr, Chief Executive at the National Housing Federation said: “Laurice is joining HouseMark at an incredibly important time for housing as we navigate a shifting landscape of evolving policy and fiscal decisions arising not least from Brexit and the devolution agenda. I know that she has the right skills and strategic experience to lead HouseMark’s growth strategy and ensure that the best possible support will be delivered to members. I am very much looking forward to working with her.”

CIH Chief Executive Terrie Alafat said: “I’m delighted that Laurice will be joining HouseMark as the new Chief Executive. This is an important appointment for HouseMark and for CIH and I know that Laurice has the drive and the talent to take HouseMark forward into the next stage of its development. HouseMark is the sector’s premier provider of business intelligence and insight; an area that is going to be of increasing importance in the next few years as social landlords adapt to the new policy and operating environment.

Laurice will be taking over HouseMark at an important point in the development of the social housing sector, but will benefit from the excellent leadership that Ross has shown which leaves HouseMark well positioned to tackle future challenges.”

Outgoing Chief Executive Ross Fraser said: “I am delighted to hand over to Laurice. She shares my passion for HouseMark and its role in the sector. I’m excited by the business transformation skills and the service user experience she is bringing to the company. She also has vast experience of registered provider and local authority housing, which means that a long handover isn’t required and I now plan to depart at the end of September. I leave knowing that, led by Laurice, the company is in good hands.”