Calico names new FD

Pennine Lancashire housing association Calico has appointed Tracy Woods as its new director of finance and corporate services, joining from Wythenshawe Community Housing Group, where she was assistant director of finance and ICT.

Woods has extensive and varied experience working in both the private and not-for-profit sectors, and is also the chairman of the board at Bolton at Home. She said: "This is a fantastic opportunity and I am really looking forward to it. I am fortunate to be joining Calico at a time when it is already in a strong position. The group has a strong track record of delivering services and support where they are most needed, with a clear focus on creating social profit."

Woods replaced Steven Brook, who has since joined Harrogate Families Housing Association.

Woods added: "The services that the Calico Group provide complement each other and have a positive impact on the lives of our customers. It is a challenging time, particularly with the economic climate, welfare reform changes, and the reduction in public spending, but the Group are committed to delivering high quality services, creating local jobs, and building new homes whilst achieving value for money in everything they do."

Anthony Duerden, Calico's chief executive, said: "Tracy really has a grasp of the challenges and opportunities we are currently facing and a clear commitment to delivering excellent support services across the Calico Group, which will ensure that we continue to provide quality services that make a difference to people's lives.

"Our unique group structure allows us to combine our growing range of services for maximum social impact. We believe that Tracy's wealth of experience will help us to continue to succeed in the private and public markets."

Calico Homes is based in Burnley. Calico owns and manages more than 4,500 homes.