Experienced regulator Rachel Fletcher joins housing association giant to help it get to grips with the Social Housing Regulation Bill
Clarion has hired the former boss of water industry regulator Ofwat as a board member as it prepares for new regulation.
The 125,000-home housing association giant has announced the appointment of Rachel Fletcher who served as chief executive of Ofwat between 2018 and 2021 and before that worked for energy regulator Ofgem for more than 15 years. Fletcher, who is currently director of regulation and economics for Octopus Energy, will serve on the group’s remuneration, nomination and people Committee.
David Avery, chair of Clarion, said: “Rachel brings with her a wealth of regulatory experience from major sectors. This will be particularly welcome as we adapt to some of the changes being introduced in the new Social Housing Regulation Bill.”
The social housing regulation bill, currently going through parliament, is intended to strengthen regulation of tenant service. It will bring in ‘Ofsted-style’ inspections of properties owned by underperforming landlords and allow the regulator of social housing to issue performance improvement plans notices to providers.
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Clarion has hit the headlines this year following criticism from the Housing Ombudsman. It was served with a severe maladministration judgement by the Housing Ombudsman in April for failing to handle complaints adequately and was ordered to pay £2,300 in compensation. In May it was hit with a second judgement, prompting the ombudsman to investigate if there are systemic failings at the landlord.
Fletcher said: ”’I’m looking forward to supporting the group in providing a good service to all its customers and adapting to the new regulatory focus on customer service as the new Social Housing Regulation Bill continues through Parliament.”
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