Bronwen Rapley announces retirement
After almost a decade, our Chief Executive Bronwen Rapley has announced today that she will be retiring in spring 2026. Bronwen joined Onward as Chief Executive in 2016 and steered the organisation through a significant period of change bringing together five different housing associations into one organisation.
Tim Johnston, Chair of Onward, said:
“Bronwen spearheaded the creation of Onward into a united organisation that has solid foundations in place to deliver for our customers, communities and colleagues. We are now building more than ever before, delivering major improvements in customers’ homes and driving continuous improvement in our services.
“Whilst we know that the sector will continue to face pressures, we are well-equipped to navigate these and have a clear vision to make The Onward Difference well into the future. On behalf of the Board, I would like to express our gratitude to Bronwen for her leadership and the legacy she leaves for us to build upon.
“The Board will begin the recruitment process shortly to find the new Chief Executive of Onward.”
Bronwen Rapley, Chief Executive of Onward, added:
“It has been a huge privilege to lead Onward over the last decade. The recent government settlement creates so much opportunity for our sector and so for me this is the right time to step back and hand over to a new leader.
“We now have a real chance to make inroads into the housing crisis by building new homes and continuing to invest in our existing communities. I am so proud of my colleagues at Onward for their commitment and passion to making a difference every day for the communities we serve.”