HOUSING association Sanctuary Group has announced its group chief executive David Bennett is to retire at the end of the year.

Mr Bennett joined the organisation in 1986 and has led it since 1991.

Following a comprehensive recruitment exercise, the board has appointed Craig Moule, Sanctuary’s chief financial officer, as chief executive with effect from January 1, 2019.

Mr Bennett said: “It’s been a privilege to have been part of an organisation that has achieved so much for people in need of support.

"I’ve been fortunate to work with an exceptionally talented and dedicated group of people committed to Sanctuary’s vision and values.

“I am sure that through Craig’s leadership, Sanctuary will continue to be a dynamic organisation delivering ambitious goals."

Jonathan Lander, group chairman, said: “Thanks to David’s astute and visionary leadership Sanctuary is one of the UK’s principal housing and care providers, having grown from one with a turnover of £22 million and employing 628 people in 1991, to one which now has a turnover of £728 million and employs more than 13,000.

“Throughout his time at Sanctuary, David has worked tirelessly to make a difference to the lives of our customers and employees, and this was recognised with his award of a CBE in 2015 for services to social housing.

“David leaves an excellent legacy for Craig to build on. On behalf of the board I would like to sincerely thank David for his dedicated service and commitment to Sanctuary.

“Craig has worked at Sanctuary since 1989 and has contributed greatly to the organisation’s accomplishments since that time.”

On his new appointment, Craig Moule said: “I am proud to be Sanctuary’s next group chief executive, and look forward to working with the board and senior team to ensure the continued success of the organisation."