Update on the Great Places merger with MSV

Wednesday 5th July 2023

We remain on track to complete the merger on 30 September 2023. The Boards of both Organisations have now approved the Final Business Case and we are on track with the required consents

The designate Executive structure for the new Great Places (that will become the Executive team from day one of the merger) has been agreed following a rigorous selection process.

On completion of the merger, the following Executive team will be in place:

Charlie Norman - Chief Executive

Alison Dean - Deputy Chief Executive / Executive Director, People and Culture

Fiona Creighton - Executive Director, Sustainable Homes

Helen Spencer - Executive Director, Growth

Matt Jones - Executive Director, Customer

Guy Cresswell - Executive Director, Customer

As previously announced in February, Phil Elvy (Executive Director of Finance, Great Places) has decided to retire. Helen Rourke (Executive Director of Finance, MSV) is also leaving to take up a new role in the education sector. Both are currently working their notice periods. As a result, we will be recruiting externally for a new Chief Financial Officer imminently. 

However, we are really pleased to announce that Phil Elvy has agreed to defer his retirement and stay on in his role as Executive Director of Finance until a new CFO is appointed and a suitable handover has taken place.  

We are also able to let you know that Francesco Elia (a sector-experienced interim EFD) will be joining MSV to provide interim support, and ensure a smooth handover with Helen.    

The combination of Phil continuing and Francesco joining will bring both experience and stability at an important time for both colleagues and stakeholders.

Guy Cresswell and Matt Jones will work together to ensure a smooth integration of the Customer Service directorate. Matt will remain in the business permanently, and Guy will leave at an appropriate time in the integration process at some point in 2024.