The Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) has officially announced the appointment of Gillian McLees as its new national director for Scotland, effective today, 5 January 2026.

She succeeds Callum Chomczuk, who has moved on to a new professional role.

McLees enters the position with a distinguished career spanning more than two decades in the housing industry. Her background covers a broad spectrum of tenures, including social housing, the private rented sector (PRS), and purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA).

Throughout her career, she has held various executive and non-executive positions, notably serving as the vice chair of River Clyde Homes. In that role, she focused on net-zero innovation and organisational transformation while advocating for tenant interests.

Strategic Leadership and Collaboration

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Over the last five years, McLees has been a prominent figure in shaping Scotland's housing policy through extensive work with the Scottish Government and local authorities. Her leadership experience includes:

• Establishing the Scottish branch of the Association of Rented Living.

• Contributing to the Scottish Property Federation.

• Collaborating with More Homes More Quickly to foster sector-wide unified visions.

In her capacity as national director, McLees will oversee CIH's member engagement and external affairs within Scotland. A primary focus of her early tenure will be guiding the sector through the upcoming Scottish parliamentary elections in May.

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Commenting on her new role, Gillian McLees said: "I am honoured to take on the role of national director for Scotland at such a pivotal time for our sector. Housing is fundamental to the wellbeing of individuals and communities, and I am passionate about working with CIH members, partners, and stakeholders to help shape a positive future for housing in Scotland. I look forward to building on the strong foundations laid by my predecessor, championing the voices of our members, and supporting the sector as we navigate both challenges and opportunities ahead."

Rachael Williamson, CIH executive director of policy, communications and external affairs for the UK, added: "We're absolutely delighted to welcome Gillian to the CIH team. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will strengthen our ability to represent our members' voices in Scotland through our policy and external affairs work and further raise CIH's profile across the housing sector."