Lorraine Usher

Ms Usher, who became CEO in early 2015, will remain in position until the end of April with the recruitment process to appoint a successor beginning later this month.

She joined the Association following a two-year period of regulatory intervention and her inspiration resulted in Loreburn being named charity employer of the year for two consecutive years. Having started her career as a rent collector, and being offered opportunities for career development, Ms Usher has always been passionate about maximising the potential of colleagues and combined that with a customer-centric culture and determination for excellence.

Prior to joining Loreburn, Ms Usher held various roles in social housing, with a career spanning 25 years. Active in other charitable sector organisations, Lorraine also held Board appointments for several other charities and is the current chair of Housemark Scotland Advisory Board.

With plans to travel before considering fresh challenges and opportunities, Ms Usher said “It’s time to commit to my long-held desires for travel and new experiences. It’s easy to say life’s too short without acting. This is a good time for me to handover the baton with a strengthened Management Committee in recent months and having just celebrated Loreburn’s 40th anniversary and reflecting on our achievements.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Loreburn and will remember it with great affection. I’m proud of all we have achieved over the past 8 years. Leading an organisation that is people focussed, it’s been a privilege to serve customers and work alongside so many dedicated and values driven people in the sector and at Loreburn. I know the Management Committee and team will continue to be successful well into the future.”

Since her arrival in 2015, Loreburn has achieved housing industry awards including Employer of the Year, Housing Team of the Year and Excellence in Development. Loreburn has also been a leading light in the adoption of Passivhaus standards for new homes.

Russell Brown, convener for Loreburn, added: “Lorraine is a strong, dynamic leader with vision and determination. She leaves us with a strong team and a legacy of innovation and passion for outstanding service delivery, putting customers at the front and centre of all we do.

“She has propelled the organisation forward and been inspirational, bringing new ideas, innovation and complete dedication and commitment to the social purpose of housing associations.

“Lorraine leaves us in a great place to build on her legacy as we enter the next decade at Loreburn, and we wish her much happiness and fulfilment in her travels and beyond.”