South of England landlord looking for new chief executive

Last month, Saxon Weald, which operates homes across Sussex and Hampshire, was given a C2 rating for consumer standards under the English regulator’s new regime. 

In its judgement, the Regulator of Social Housing said there were “some weaknesses in how Saxon Weald is delivering the outcomes of the consumer standards and improvement is needed”.

The association retained its G1/V2 rating for governance and financial viability. 

To replace Mr Dennis, Saxon Weald said it is looking for “a highly visible and inclusive leader with a proven track record of success at senior executive level”. 

The salary for the landlord’s new boss will be £179,000, according to the job advert. The figure is just above the median basis pay of a chief executive in the sector, based on Inside Housing’s latest Chief Executive Salary Survey.

Mr Dennis said: “It has been an incredible 25 years working at Saxon Weald, with the last six as chief executive being especially rewarding. 

“I feel privileged to have been a part of Saxon Weald’s journey and to have worked with such a dedicated, talented and resilient team.” 

In its last full year to the end of March 2024, Saxon Weald reported a slightly reduced surplus of £6.2m on an increased turnover of £56.8m. 

The association currently has an A3 credit rating and a stable outlook from Moody’s.

Saxon Weald was formed through a stock transfer from Horsham District Council and converted to a community benefit society around six years ago.