Ian Lush OBE has joined Local Space as the new Chair of the Board, following the completion of Victor da Cunha’s tenure.
Ian brings more than 40 years’ experience in leadership, governance and regeneration, and joins us at an exciting time as we continue our work helping Londoners move from homelessness into settled, affordable homes.
As we welcome Ian, we would also like to thank Victor for his outstanding contribution to Local Space during his time as Chair. His leadership, support and commitment to our mission have helped strengthen the organisation and position us well for future challenges and opportunities.
Reflecting on the transition, Victor da Cunha said:
“As I step down at the end of my tenure, I am delighted that Ian Lush OBE will succeed me as Chair of the Board. I look forward to supporting a smooth transition and wish Ian every success as he leads the Board through the next chapter of Local Space’s development.
“I have full confidence in the strength of the Board, the Senior Management Team and the organisation as a whole, including Local Space’s ability to continue responding to change and delivering positive outcomes for residents and communities in the years ahead.”
Ian joins Local Space following a distinguished career that has spanned the charity, health, heritage and arts sectors. He previously served as Chief Executive of Imperial Health Charity and Chair of NHS Charities Together, helping to lead the national Covid-19 appeal that raised £163 million. He was awarded an OBE in 2020 for services to the NHS.
Throughout his career, Ian has been a strong advocate for the role housing plays in improving health and wellbeing, a perspective that closely aligns with Local Space’s purpose and values.
Josie Parsons, Chief Executive at Local Space, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Ian as our new Chair. His outstanding track record in leadership, governance and partnership working will be a tremendous asset to Local Space.
“Ian understands the relationship between housing, health and life chances. That perspective aligns closely with our purpose and will help us continue supporting people into settled homes and brighter futures.”
Ian Lush OBE, Chair of the Board at Local Space said:
“Good quality housing has a profound impact on people’s lives. Throughout my career I have seen first-hand the difference that a safe, secure and settled home can make to health, wellbeing and opportunity.
“Local Space plays an important role in helping families and individuals move out of homelessness and into long-term accommodation, and I am delighted to be joining the organisation. I look forward to working with Board colleagues, customers, local authority partners and senior leaders to build on that impact and help even more people access the stability that good housing provides.”
We are delighted to welcome Ian to Local Space and look forward to working together as we continue delivering positive outcomes for residents and communities across East London.