Emmerich appointed Torus chair 

Former government advisor and founder of consultancy Metro Dynamics Mike Emmerich will replace Graham Burgess as chair of the housing association’s board this September. 

Emmerich said Torus is “well placed to make a positive impact” in the North West at a time of economic uncertainty. 

He added: “We are facing challenging times with the difficult economic environment and cost-of-living crisis, so it has never been more important for housing association boards to implement the right strategies to ensure they achieve their missions while keeping their values.” 

Emmerich will work as Torus’ chair alongside his role as founding director of Metro Dynamics, a consultancy that advises local government and investors on placemaking. 

He spent nearly nine years as chief executive of New Economy Manchester from 2006 and has also worked at Ernst & Young and, at the turn of the century, as a policy advisor to the government. 

Steve Coffey, group chief executive at Torus, Emmerich’s appointment is timely. 

“Our board plays a vital role in how we operate as an organisation, and we are delighted to welcome Mike’s leadership at a crucial time as the group works to meet the challenges both within the sector and the wider external environment.” 

Paul Burns had taken on the role of chair in January 2022 but stepped down six months later having been appointed as a circuit judge. 

Burgess, who had made way for Burns, took up the role once more. 

Coffey added: “At this year’s AGM the group will thank Graham Burgess for his valuable service to Torus.  

“He was a driving force behind the amalgamation in 2019 that created the current Torus Group and, by bringing his vast experience to Torus, he has been a central figure in helping us obtain positive outcomes through the group’s commitment to growing stronger communities.”