News
The Pioneer Group is delighted to announce the latest appointments to its Group Board. Nikki Smith and Sue Spicer have joined the board, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to the organisation.
Nikki, a Chartered Accountant with over 25 years of experience in various Finance and Business Support roles, has worked in the Housing Sector for more than 15 years and currently serves as Head of Finance and Treasury at Cottsway Housing. She has also led several digital transformation initiatives focused on leveraging technology to enhance efficiency.
Sue Spicer is a valued customer of The Pioneer Group and a familiar face within the organisation. She previously served on The Pioneer Group Board, chaired the former CVCH Board, and was a member of the Scrutiny Panel. Sue’s extensive experience in customer involvement and engagement, along with her deep understanding of The Pioneer Group’s communities, makes her a key addition to the board.
In a pioneering move, The Pioneer Group is also thrilled to announce the introduction of three trainee board members, Kai, Tracey, and Carlo, marking a first for the organisation. Delivered in partnership with the Housing Diversity Network’s national trainee programme, Kai, Tracey, and Carlo will observe board meetings as part of their development journey, gaining firsthand insight and experience in governance and strategic decision-making. This underlines The Pioneer Group’s commitment to developing new talent and building future leadership.
The Pioneer Group also bids farewell to two longstanding members of its board. Carole Wildman, who joined in 2017 and chaired Group Board from 2019 to 2023 will be leaving The Pioneer Group after a successful tenure. Carole also sat on both Development & Remuneration Committees. Stuart Roberts will be stepping down in September, which will bring to an end a nine-year term, during which he played a pivotal role on the Group Board, Remuneration Committee, Audit and Assurance, and the Development Committee.
The Pioneer Group would like to thank both Carole and Stuart for their dedication and contributions over the years. Their commitment has greatly shaped the organisation.
Simon Wilson, Chief Executive at The Pioneer Group said:
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank both Carole and Stuart for their dedication and significant contributions. Carole was a fantastic Chair who brought a rich connection to the Vale along with a wealth of knowledge and experience. Stuart has also shown leadership and commitment, and both will leave a lasting impact.
Francis Burrows, Chair of The Pioneer Group said
This is a significant moment for us. We are not only strengthening our board with talented and experienced members like Nikki and Sue but also investing in future leadership through our new trainee board members. I am confident that their insights and enthusiasm will greatly enrich our board.
-ENDS-