Two of the sector's top vacancies were filled on Monday with the appointments of Ponniah Rasanesan and Danny Friedman.
Rasanesan was confirmed as chief executive of Ujima Housing Group, one of the country's largest black and minority-ethnic housing associations. He replaced Hassett Auguste, whose role he had been filling on a temporary basis since Auguste's sudden resignation in March for personal reasons (HT 21 March, page 10).

"I have been with Ujima for over 10 years, so I am really pleased to become its chief executive," said Rasanesan. "We have a new development programme that includes an expansion of supported housing services, so I am really looking forward to the challenge."

Friedman has been promoted to director of policy at the National Housing Federation. He will replace Liz Potter when she departs in September. Friedman was head of resources, research and information at the NHF. "I've had a range of jobs in strategic policy so it is a very exciting opportunity for me," said Friedman.

Potter, who held the post for two years, wants to spend more time with her family and will take on consultancy work in Brighton.

  • Steve Bundred, head of the Improvement and Development Agency and former chief executive of Camden council, north London, has been appointed chief executive of the Audit Commission. Bundred will take over from Sir Andrew Foster on 1 September.

    "I am delighted by the opportunity to contribute to the fresh approach the Audit Commission is taking to public sector regulation. Strategic Regulation means minimising bureaucracy and maximising the impact on improving public sevices."

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    Housing Today