The Chartered Institute of Housing in Scotland (CIH Scotland) has announced the appointment of Gavin Smith from Fife Council as its new vice chair.

Mr Smith succeeds Gary Dalziel who recently stepped down after serving two terms on the Scotland board.

Gavin is currently a service manager at Fife Council with responsibility for homelessness, housing access and service commissioning arrangements, Gavin has worked in various roles in a number of different housing policy areas for over 25 years. Gavin, who is also Chair of Ore Valley Housing Group, previously served on the CIH Scotland board back in 2010 and rejoined the Scotland board in 2019.

Commenting on his appointment as vice chair, Gavin said: "I am thrilled to be taking on the role of vice chair at CIH Scotland. As we all respond to the challenges faced by the pandemic I am excited about the opportunity for CIH to offer ongoing leadership for the sector, including influencing policy, improving education and supporting housing professionals in the crucial work that they do.

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"The importance of a professional body is more evident than ever as we ensure housing professionals have the skills and guidance they need to support tenants over the coming months. I'm looking forward to making a positive difference working alongside the chair, Esther Wilson and the rest of the board, as CIH continues to put housing's contribution to the health and wellbeing of our communities' centre stage."

Esther Wilson, chair of CIH Scotland said: "As we all respond to the pandemic and await the Scottish Government's new vision for Housing to 2040, I am delighted that Gavin has agreed to take on the role of vice chair on the CIH Scotland board. His knowledge and experience will be a huge asset as we seek to navigate the many challenges and opportunities ahead."

John Mills, Head of housing at Fife Council added: "I am delighted to see Gavin take on this leadership role at CIH Scotland. Fife Council has always recognised the need for all teams to invest in their own professionalism to deliver a better service for our tenants. Gavin's new role further strengthens the historic and strong links between Fife and the Institute, and I am certain this role will bring value to both organisations."