For-profit provider appoints former council leader as chair

She has been vice-chair at Square Roots for the past three years, and has more than 12 years’ experience in affordable housing in local government in London.  

Ms Coghill takes over from Simon Dudley, whose appointed term ended in the autumn last year. 

Russell Lyons, former chief financial officer at Canary Wharf Group, has been appointed vice-chair at Square Roots.

Suki Jandu, executive director of housing services at Anchor, also joins the provider as a non-executive board member.  

Barbara Richardson, managing director of Square Roots, said: “Clare has made an invaluable contribution since joining the board, and we look forward to her wise counsel as Square Roots continues its expansion and acceleration in delivery over the next five years, with a particular focus on customer engagement. 

“We are also delighted that Russell Lyons and Suki Jandu are bringing their wealth of expertise to advise Square Roots, as it evolves into one of the capital’s leading affordable providers of high quality homes.” 

Square Roots was established in 2021 and became a registered provider in 2022. It has 1,800 homes under construction and in the pipeline across London.