Independent Board Member

Make a difference to homes, communities and residents across Southend.

South Essex Homes is seeking to appoint an Independent Board Member to join its Board of Management from March 2027, following the retirement of a long-serving Board member.

Established in 2005 as the Arm's Length Management Organisation for Southend-on-Sea City Council, South Essex Homes is responsible for delivering housing services and improving the quality of homes and communities across the city. Through the Decent Homes programme and ongoing investment, we have significantly improved the homes and lives of our residents and continue to focus on service excellence, resident satisfaction and meaningful resident engagement.

 

About the Role

As an Independent Board Member, you will help provide strategic leadership, oversight and assurance for our organisation, ensuring that we continue to deliver high-quality services and achieve positive outcomes for residents.

You will join a Board comprising:

  • 5 Independent Board Members
  • 3 Tenant Board Members
  • 3 Councillor Board Members

 

Who We Are Looking For  

We welcome applications from individuals who can bring strategic thinking, sound judgement and a commitment to good governance. We are particularly interested in candidates who can contribute skills, knowledge and experience that will strengthen the collective capability of our Board.

 

Successful applicants will:

  • Demonstrate a commitment to excellent governance and accountability.
  • Provide independent challenge and constructive scrutiny.
  • Contribute to strategic decision-making.
  • Share our commitment to residents being at the heart of everything we do.
  • Work collaboratively with fellow Board Members and senior leadership.

Previous board experience is welcome but not essential. Training and support will be provided to help Board Members fulfil their responsibilities effectively.

 

Terms of Appointment  

Independent Board Members are appointed for an initial three-year term, with the possibility of up to two further three-year terms, subject to satisfactory performance, attendance and Board approval. The maximum length of service is nine years.

 

Find Out More

For further information about this opportunity, in the first instance contact Carol Cooper. Email: carolcooper@seh.southend.gov.uk 

Further information about our Board is available in our information and recruitment pack:  SEH Board Member Information and Recruitment Pack.pdf [pdf] 534KB

 

Join Us

This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of housing services in Southend and make a lasting contribution to local communities. We welcome applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences who share our commitment to delivering excellent services for residents.

Closing date for applications is Friday 20 November 2026.

Interviews will be held on Tuesday 19 January and Wednesday 20 January 2027.