Leeds-based housing association Unity Homes and Enterprise has appointed Sarfraz Hussain as Director of Housing Operations.
He joins the organisation with more than 20 years of experience in senior housing leadership roles across housing associations, local government and consultancy.
Most recently, as Director of Major Estates at Southwark Council, Sarfraz led complex transformation programmes across housing services with a strong focus on resident engagement, community involvement and service improvement.
His work included chairing the Council’s first neighbourhood pilot, leading resident engagement activity across major estate renewal programmes and overseeing the large-scale rehousing of residents into new high-quality homes along the Old Kent Road regeneration corridor in South London.
Earlier in his career, Sarfraz led a high-performing housing management business unit for a London G15 provider, managing neighbourhood and tenancy services across 4,500 homes with responsibility for operational performance, resident engagement and frontline service delivery.
At Unity Homes and Enterprise, he will provide strategic leadership for all housing operational services, including tenancy management, repairs and maintenance, rental income and resident engagement.
Established in 1987, Unity manages almost 1,400 properties in some of Leeds’ most diverse communities.
Alongside providing housing services, the association supports enterprise, employment, training and education opportunities for local people.
Cedric Boston, Unity Homes and Enterprise Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted to welcome Sarfraz to the Senior Management Team.
“He brings extensive operational leadership experience, a strong track record of service improvement and a clear commitment to delivering positive outcomes for residents and communities.
“His experience of leading resident-focused services and delivering change in complex housing environments will be a major asset to Unity as we continue to strengthen services and support local communities.
“As we look ahead to the next phase of our strategic development, his experience and insight will play an important role in helping shape our future direction.”
Sarfraz Hussain said: “Unity has a clear social purpose and a long-standing commitment to supporting diverse communities.
“Its ambition to deliver excellent housing services, while creating wider opportunities for residents, is something I fully identify with.
“Good housing services are built on trust, strong relationships and listening to residents.
“I look forward to working with colleagues, residents and partners to build on Unity’s positive impact in local communities.”
