The new director of the Chartered Institute of Housing Cymru will be Matt Dicks.
He joins CIH with a breadth of knowledge of the Welsh policy landscape after 17 years working as a senior communicator at the heart of Welsh civic and political life.
In 2009 he joined the National Assembly as its media relations manager where he has transformed the Welsh Parliament’s media operation. In that time, he has also been responsible for gatekeeping the institution’s reputation, as well as promoting its work to the people of Wales and further afield.
In 2013 he joined the board of the Cadarn Housing Group, the parent company of Newydd Housing Association.
Ahead of taking up his new role in early 2017, Matt said:
‘I am passionate about delivering affordable housing and also the people that work towards that goal, so I am delighted to be appointed as CIH Cymru director. I am looking forward to working with a dedicated team at CIH Cymru, the board, and most importantly members, to work towards ensuring that the voice of those delivering sustainable affordable housing in Wales is heard loud and clear by the decision-makers in Cardiff and Westminster. I will also focus on attracting new members to the organisation and providing further opportunities to existing members so that we can move forward together and meet the challenges that the housing sector faces in Wales.’
Annie Mauger, executive director for the devolved nations at CIH, said:
‘I am delighted that Matt is joining us to lead the team in Wales. His background in public affairs and communications will be hugely valuable in getting the messages across to decision makers about the contribution housing makes to changing lives and building communities.’
Paul Diggory, chair of the CIH Cymru board, said:
‘Matt will bring a fresh perspective to this important role. The board members are very impressed with his passion for housing and his previous work at the Welsh Assembly will mean a strong voice for our members in the corridors of power.’