Welcome

Welcome, and thank you for your interest in Westward and in our Chief Financial Officer opportunity.

This is an important appointment for us, and an exciting time to be joining the organisation.

Westward is in a strong position. We are a well-established and financially stable organisation with a clear social purpose. Every day, we provide homes and services to thousands of people across Devon and Cornwall, and we are proud of the role we play in the lives of our customers and communities.

At the same time, we know the environment we are operating in is changing. Expectations are rising, resources are under pressure, and housing providers are being asked to do more than ever before. That is why the role of CFO is so central to our future.

We are looking for more than a strong technical finance leader. We want someone who can help us make thoughtful, balanced decisions, someone who understands that financial strength is what enables us to invest in existing homes, deliver new homes, improve services and make a lasting difference in our communities.

This is a broad and influential role. Our work spans social housing, development, commercial activity and support services, bringing both opportunity and complexity. Over the coming years, the CFO will play a key role in helping us navigate change,  supporting major system developments, maintaining financial resilience, enabling our development ambitions and ensuring we are well placed for an increasingly demanding regulatory environment.

Just as important to us is the way you lead. Westward is a practical, values-led organisation. We are looking for someone who will work collaboratively, build strong relationships across the business and bring clarity, judgement and a grounded perspective. This role sits at the heart of the organisation, working closely with the Board and executive team, while staying connected to the realities of our day-to-day operations.

You would be joining a team that is committed to doing the right thing, even when the choices are difficult. We care deeply about providing good-quality homes, earning the trust of our customers and making a positive contribution to the places we serve.

If that feels like the kind of organisation, and the kind of role you would like to be part of, I would be delighted to hear from you.

Stephen Lodge, Chief Executive