Hightown appoints new chief executive to replace long-standing boss

Ms Espley served as executive director of care and support at GreenSquareAccord from when it was formed through a merger in 2021.

She served in the role at legacy organisation Accord for nearly six years. 

Ms Espley has 30 years of senior operational experience across housing, health and care. 

She spent 10 years of her early career in housing before returning to the sector in 2015.

Mr Bogle has led Hightown since 1995. The association owns and manages around 9,000 homes in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire.

Over his three decades in charge, the landlord has seen its stock grow from 550 to 9,000 homes, with its annual turnover increasing from £4m to £136m.

Qadeer Kiani, board chair at Hightown, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Maxine as our new chief executive. I am confident that through Maxine’s leadership, Hightown Housing will continue to thrive and deliver much-needed services to our customers and communities.

“I look forward to working closely with Maxine as we open a new chapter and continue to help more people live in safe and secure homes.”

Ms Espley said she was “delighted” to be appointed.

She added: “I am proud and privileged to work in a sector that makes such an important contribution to the lives of so many and I know how much difference Hightown already makes to individuals and communities through the delivery of homes and care and support services.

“I am excited to work alongside the Hightown board and executive and with our colleagues, customers and stakeholders to build on the amazing legacy and to shape our future service and customer offer.”