Lead an exceptional organisation. Shape its next chapter. Change lives every day.



Christchurch Housing Society is unlike most housing and care providers. Established in 1946, we are a financially strong, independent charitable Community Benefit Society with a proud reputation for delivering outstanding housing, care and support services to older people across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.



We provide more than 630 affordable homes, operate highly regarded nursing and residential care services, run community lunch clubs, and support hundreds of older people to live independently, safely and with dignity. Our residents consistently tell us how much they value the quality of our services, with customer satisfaction levels exceeding 90%. We are debt free, financially secure and ambitious about the future.



We are seeking an inspiring and values-driven leader to build on our strong foundations and lead the Society into its next phase of development. This is a rare opportunity to inherit an organisation with a clear social purpose, an outstanding reputation, a committed and experienced workforce, and a Board that combines effective challenge with genuine support.



As Chief Executive, you will lead a diverse and complex organisation spanning housing, asset management, care and nursing services, community provision and major regeneration. You will oversee a £10m budget and a dedicated team of around 150 colleagues while driving ambitious plans that include care home redevelopment, asset investment and the regeneration of existing housing to create more affordable homes for future generations. As the nominated individual for care services you will need to bring an understanding of the regulated care sector.



We are looking for a strategic, visible and collaborative leader with experience of operating in a regulated environment. Whether your background is in housing, health, social care, the charity sector or a related field, you will bring strong governance skills, commercial acumen and a passion for delivering excellent services for older and vulnerable people. Importantly, you will share our commitment to putting residents at the heart of everything we do.



This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting difference in a successful and distinctive organisation that plays an integral role in its local community.



To access the candidate pack and apply, please click the 'Continue' button below. For further information and a confidential discussion, please contact Alex Hayes on 07586715843.



To view the job description and person specification, please scroll to the bottom of the page, tick to agree to the privacy policy, then click 'Continue to full details'.




Recruitment Timetable



Closing Date

9am Monday 28th September 2026



Longlist Meeting

Tuesday 6th October 2026



Preliminary Interviews with GatenbySanderson

w/c 12th & 19th October 2026



Shortlist Meeting

Monday 26th October 2026



Stock Tour at Christchurch (half day)

Friday 30th October and Monday 2nd November 2026



Final Panel Interview

Wednesday 18th November 2026




How to Apply

• Please submit your CV along with a Supporting Statement addressing the person specification criteria, evidencing how you meet the criteria.


• Detail any employment or education gaps.


• Be ready to provide the names, positions, organisations and contact details for two referees; one should be your current or most recent employer. Referees will be contacted for those proceeding to final stages. We will always gain your permission before we contact referees.


• Let us know any difficulty you may have with the indicative timetable.


• Check that your contact details are correct before you submit.

Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an automated email confirmation. If you do not receive, please email contactus@gatenbysanderson.com