Oaklee has today announced that its Chief Executive, Sharon Cosgrove, intends to step down at the end of May 2027, following more than a decade leading the organisation. Sharon will continue to lead Oaklee until then, as the Board begins the search for her successor. Services to residents and partners are unaffected.
Sharon has told the Chair and the Board that she intends to step down as Chief Executive of Oaklee at the end of May 2027.
This is a personal decision, and one Sharon has thought about carefully.
Sharon has led Oaklee for over a decade, and this is the next stage of a journey she has shaped. She has been a steward for Oaklee and for the wider sector, guiding Oaklee from its time within the Choice Housing Group to full independence in 2023, and growing its homes from fewer than 700 to nearly 3,000 by the end of this year.
Under her leadership, Oaklee achieved some firsts in the sector: the first large private finance deal, with Nord/LB, which created the Acorn vehicle, and a place in the first social housing PPP bundle through the Comhar consortium. More recently, Oaklee delivered its first cost rental scheme at The Sidings in Adamstown, moved into its new headquarters at Brunel Building, and has been recognised by its peers. Sharon has also been a steward for the whole sector, through her leadership roles in the ICSH and the Housing Alliance.
As Oaklee marks 25 years as an Approved Housing Body, Sharon is planning her transition out of the role from a position of strength. The foundations she has laid mean the future we are building is a strong one.
Between now and next year, Sharon will continue to lead Oaklee with the same energy and commitment she always has.
Search for the next Chief Executive
The Board, led by Chair Brian Hayes, has begun the search for a new Chief Executive, with the aim of appointing before Sharon leaves so that the handover is smooth and orderly. The process is open to both internal and external candidates, and further updates will follow as it progresses.
No impact on residents or operations
Sharon's decision will have no impact on Oaklee's operations.
Our homes, services and commitments to residents, partners and funders continue as normal, repairs and housing services are unchanged, and the usual contacts remain the same.
An experienced senior leadership team remains in place and continues to deliver our mission and plans.
Looking ahead
Sharon's leadership has given Oaklee a strong platform, and our focus in the months ahead is where it has always been, delivering great homes and thriving communities for the people we serve.
We thank Sharon for everything she has given, and we will share further updates as the search for our next Chief Executive progresses.
