This week, Debbie Ward (1 September 2025) joined the LGA as Head of the new Council Housebuilding Support Service (CHoSS).
She comes with significant local government and housing experience, most recently as interim Executive Director for Resident Services for Southampton City Council, establishing the new directorate leading Housing, Leisure, Waste, Regulatory and customer services.
Debbie worked with Homes England to create the Local Government Capacity Centre and as Director for Transformation from 2019 - 2023 and prior to that was Chief Executive for Dorset County Council from 2012.
She has held Director roles for Housing and Social Care in London Boroughs and Unitary Authorities.
Debbie said “having a home is fundamental to everyone’s health and wellbeing, it’s the base we all need to live the best lives we can and I am passionate about delivering great social housing. It’s a real pleasure to be joining the LGA to establish such an important programme.”