Brighter Places is a social housing organisation with a belief that everyone should have a safe and secure place to call home. It was established in 2021 after a merger between Solon South West and United Communities, two organisations that had been operating in Bristol for decades.
Today, they manage over 3,300 homes and serve more than 8,000 residents in Bristol and surrounding areas.
The Challenge
Brighter Places are committed to providing homes for those who need them most. Their mission is to offer a safe place where people can belong, no matter their background, journey or origin. They believe that everyone is welcome and valued, and aspire to create communities that reflect these values.
To achieve these ambitions, they need the right people. They sought help from Moon Executive Search to fill the following posts:
● Chair of the Board
● Non-Executive Directors
● Independent Committee Member on Governance and Remuneration Committee
Brighter Places CEO Anna Klimczak stressed the importance of finding the perfect fit for each role:
‘These roles work closely with our executive leadership to fulfil our vision and are essential in ensuring efficient governance of Brighter Places. It is crucial to have highly skilled and experienced individuals who inspire their colleagues and optimise performance.
To assist with the appointment of the right candidates for these important positions, we chose Moon Executive Search. We were impressed by Moon's proven track record in successful Board and Director appointments, as well as their desire to develop an understanding of our culture and values. Moon's ability to grasp the challenges facing Brighter Places was also noteworthy.’
Our Approach
After a comprehensive evaluation of each brief, we delegated the roles between our search experts. This allowed us to work to the strengths of our advisors. The Non-Executive Directors and Chair of the Board searches were led by Moon’s Founding Director, Vanessa Moon and Director of Executive Search, Simon Quinn. These positions are integral to the efficient governance of Brighter Places. The Chair of the Board represents the organisation internally and externally, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, whilst incorporating stakeholder views into key decisions.
The Non-Executive Directors needed to have an understanding of the needs and aspirations of the communities that Brighter Places works with. They would guarantee the principles of diversity, inclusion, involvement and empowerment are applied in decision-making.
Our search team looked for highly skilled candidates in management, finance and general business practices. Both these roles required honest individuals, who could inspire commitment, enthusiasm and excellent performance from colleagues.
Sandy Hinks, Head of Moon’s Charity Practice, led the search for an Independent Committee Member. Sandy searched for a community-focused candidate, passionate about providing homes to those in need.
The Solutions
Candidates for all the roles were put forward following extensive research and a thorough screening and selection process. Assessment of their expertise in finance, management and governance led to an initial shortlist. This was narrowed down further through an evaluation of their principles and values, making sure they were the right fit for Brighter Places.
Our final recommendations were presented to Brighter Places, who placed the candidates in the vacant roles, agreeing that each individual had the ability to improve their governance and the drive to help the communities they work with.
Sandy Hinks, Head of Moon’s Charity Practice, commented:
‘We thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the Board at Brighter Places and finding candidates that would help achieve their vision. Through a three-pronged approach of headhunting, research and screening, we proposed individuals that add significant value to Brighter Places. We are thrilled they decided to move forward with our recommendations.’
Harry Partington, who was appointed Chair of the Board, impressed during the recruitment process with his customer-focused strategy and long-term plans to combat the cost-of-living crisis. He commented:
‘I’m delighted to join Brighter Places as Chair of the Board. I look forward to making a difference within communities through the provision of quality housing to those who need them.’
Moon successfully placed:
▪ Chair of the Board - Harry Partington
▪ Non-Executive Directors - Ben Cook, Gillian Durden, Mark Simmonds
▪ Independent Committee Member on Governance and Remuneration Committee - Amy Webb
Moon Executive Search offers dedicated and trusted advisors for leadership appointments. We believe that great leaders make the world a better place.
Contact us to learn more.
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