We've welcomed a new chair designate and a new member to our board!
Andy Walder will replace our current chair David Biggs, who will reach the end of his term in September 2025.
Andy brings nearly 30 years’ experience in both the private and public sectors. Having held senior roles at leading organisations such as Grand Metropolitan Retailing, Whitbread, and Allied Domecq, he has a strong background in commercial leadership with expertise in marketing, sales, operations, procurement, asset management and development.
As the previous chair at Freebridge Housing Association as well as leader of various high-profile projects for the Construction Industry Training Board, Andy has extensive board experience in and outside the housing sector.
Our chair designate, Andy Walder
Commenting on his appointment, Andy Walder said:
“I’ve seen B3Living’s commitment to delivering excellent customer experiences in action and it really resonates with my drive to create great communities where people can be the best they can possibly be."
“I am eager to build on the work that has been done to put the resident voice at the heart of the organisation and continue to create safe, affordable homes for local people.”
Amanda Tomlinson, our new board member
Amanda Tomlinson also joins the B3Living board with a wealth of experience in the housing sector from her current role as chief executive of Black Country Housing Group.
Amanda has a long career of addressing inequalities and improving housing outcomes. Prior to that, she operated at the executive level for over 10 years as a finance director with a CIPFA qualification. Amanda Tomlinson said:
“I’m passionate about the local agenda and have a background in community-based housing.
"The role with B3Living offered an excellent opportunity to work with another organisation that delivers that positive impact on the ground.”
B3Living’s current chair, David Biggs, reflected:
“Since I joined B3Living in 2018, it’s been highly enjoyable working with excellent colleagues and seeing the difference we make in our customers’ lives. I will look back upon these times proudly.
“During the first instalment of our Better Futures strategy, we consistently improved our service for our customers. Now as we proceed with the second instalment of our strategy, our customers are placed even more at the heart of all our activities to ensure our homes attractive, safe and comfortable places to live for them.
“Andy and Amanda’s appointments mark an exciting new chapter for B3Living. They bring a shared commitment and some great expertise which I am confident will help build on previous achievements and create even better homes, communities, and business for our customers.”