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The chair of Homes England has stepped down from the organisation to take up the role of chief strategic advisor to prime minister Boris Johnson.
Sir Edward Lister has held the role of chair of Homes England since its inception in January 2018 and was previously chair of the Homes and Communities Agency before it split into Homes England and the Regulator of Social Housing.
Earlier this year, Sir Edward took a leave of absence to help Mr Johnson with his campaign to become the next leader of the Conservative Party.
In July, after Mr Johnson won the leadership contest, Homes England confirmed that Sir Edward would be continuing his leave of absence.
Simon Dudley, who is a senior independent director at Homes England, will continue to deputise in the role of chair following Sir Edward’s departure.
Sir Edward was previously leader of the Conservative administration of Wandsworth Borough Council for 19 years.
He also worked as deputy mayor for policy and planning at City Hall during Mr Johnson’s term as mayor of London and was credited with much of the then-mayor’s housing policy at the time.
Nick Walkley, chief executive of Homes England, said: “I confirm Sir Edward Lister has informed the secretary of state for housing, Robert Jenrick MP, that he is stepping down as chairman of the Homes England board permanently to focus on his new role as prime minister Boris Johnson’s chief strategic advisor.
“I’d like to thank him for his huge contribution to the agency, particularly during a period that has seen us expand rapidly.”
Mr Dudley said: “Sir Edward leaves a remarkable legacy, including making the case for a new Homes England that promises to disrupt the housing market to deliver the homes this country needs.
“Sir Edward has worked tirelessly to ensure Homes England has the expertise it needs, helping to double the number of staff in just 18 months, and by strengthening its board to make it more resilient and diverse.”