Sarah Boyack takes on new role at the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations

Sarah Boyack will be the new head of public affairs at the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) from the end of this month.

A former MSP and cabinet minister, Boyack is currently lecturing at Heriot Watt University

The post is a key part of SFHA’s executive team and she will be responsible for policy, research and media work. She replaces Andrew Jackson who left last year.

Mary Taylor, chief executive of the SFHA, said: “The SFHA is delighted to attract people of Sarah’s calibre. Sarah is well known throughout Scottish politics and widely respected for her effective leadership in collaborating across party lines to secure better outcomes for people.

“Sarah is experienced in turning policy into action to meet the needs of people who are vulnerable. Her knowledge, networks and skills will be a huge asset to the organisation.”

Boyack said: “I am absolutely delighted to be offered a senior post at SFHA at this exciting time. I want to put my experience in public life to the service of housing associations and especially their tenants.

“The SFHA has already played an important role in securing public investment in new social housing. I am very much looking forward to be able to support members of SFHA to deliver that ambition with a new generation of good-quality housing across Scotland.

“I am passionate about getting the best possible deal for tenants of housing associations, whether through the new social security powers or the potential for better health and wellbeing. This job brings lots of opportunity to influence for good.”

The SFHA has also confirmed it will recruit for a new chief executive in a couple of weeks, after Mary Taylor announced last year she would retire once a new head of policy had been recruited.