Abri has today announced two new appointments to further strengthen and diversify its Group Board.
Former L&Q Chief Executive, David Montague, and broadcast journalist turned social entrepreneur, Veronica Gordon will join Abri’s Group Board in May 2022.
Veronica Gordon is a former BBC local radio and ITV regional news journalist and the founder of Our Version Media – a Southampton-based organisation that increases positive and authentic representation of Black and marginalised communities.
She brings considerable experience in broadcast and digital media. Veronica, who is a long-standing customer of Abri, also has a unique perspective on the voice of the customer through well-established links with Abri’s communities across the south where she has worked and volunteered for the past 15 years.
David Montague spent more than 30 years with L&Q, including a spell as Group Finance Director, and 12 years as Chief Executive. While at L&Q, David oversaw an ambitious period of growth, leading the organisation successfully through mergers and partnerships to create a housing association with a portfolio of 110,000 homes.
David offers a unique perspective on lessons learned from balancing the delivery of much-needed homes with investment in existing stock – a challenge faced by all housing associations.
Group Chair, Wayne Morris said:
“Veronica and David bring valued skills and capabilities to our Board. Both demonstrate a strong commitment to our social purpose of creating communities and empowering lives. We are delighted to have attracted two high calibre individuals who share Abri’s espoused values.”
Group Chief Executive, Gary Orr added:
“These appointments represent another important step in our journey to challenge ourselves and make our Board as diverse and as relevant as possible. This will be critical in the successful delivery of our refreshed strategy. I warmly welcome Veronica and David to Abri and look forward to the different lived experiences and perspectives they each will bring.”
Veronica said about her appointment: “I’m beyond happy to be joining the Board. I’m looking forward to helping Abri connect with its communities in new and creative ways and to bring the voice of the customer into the heart of the boardroom.”
David commented: “I’m delighted to be joining Abri’s Board. It’s an organisation I know well and respect for its ambitious and progressive strategy I’m looking forward to helping Abri navigate an increasingly challenging environment whilst delivering its bold ambitions.”
