THT and L&Q appoint partnerships director

Alyson Heald has been promoted from head of policy and research to lead Trafford Housing Trust and L&Q’s team in establishing and building relationships with companies in the North West.

Heald has been with THT since 2005, staying with the company when the national housing association acquired THT in 2019. As part of the acquisition deal, THT continues to have its own executive management and operates as a standalone subsidiary.

Heald said that she was “thrilled” to be taking on the partnerships director role.

“[I] look forward to working with current and future partners to deliver the L&Q Group’s long-term plans for the North West and maximise opportunities for our customers and communities in Trafford and beyond,” she said.

“It’s vital that we work in partnership to understand the needs of North West residents, community organisations, local and regional government and other stakeholders to help shape strategic plans which meet these needs and deliver the increased growth and social impact we want in the region.”

Fiona Fletcher-Smith, the chief executive of L&Q, said Heald’s promotion fits in well with the company’s mission.

“Our ambition for the North West is centred on boosting social investment in local communities to support residents and neighbourhoods and delivering 20,000 quality new homes across the region over the coming years,” Fletcher-Smith said.

“Collaboration with regional partners and stakeholders will be crucial to our success, and our new partnerships Director will be central to this work.

“Aly’s commitment to our social purpose and passion for local communities in the North West shone through in the recruitment process, and I’m delighted to welcome Aly into this critical new role.”