Elizabeth Froude to step down as our Group Chief Executive in 2026

We have announced that our Group Chief Executive Elizabeth Froude will step down in Quarter 1 of 2026 to take up the role of CEO at Sage Homes. 

Elizabeth has led Platform since its formation following the merger of Fortis Living and Waterloo Housing, overseeing its growth into one of England’s largest social landlords, managing more than 50,000 homes across the Midlands. We are a Strategic Partner with Homes England and have built more than 8,700 affordable since the merger. 

Widely regarded as a key voice in the social housing sector, she has played an influential role in shaping policy discussions around governance, sustainable finance, and delivery models. She has also advocated for stronger collaboration between ‘For Profit’ and ‘Not For Profit’ housing providers, particularly in the context of the government’s target to deliver 1.5 million new homes. 

Elizabeth said: “It has been an incredible journey to lead Platform through its formation and growth. I’m proud of what we’ve built—an organisation with a clear purpose, a strong customer focus, and a commitment to continuous improvement. As the sector faces the challenge of delivering 1.5 million new homes, I believe greater alignment between likeminded partners—across all parts of the sector, including Not for Profit and For Profit landlords—will be essential. I’m excited to contribute to that journey and continue shaping the future of Social Housing in the UK.” 

Under Froude’s leadership we have: 

• Launched a £2 billion EMTN programme; 

• Became an early adopter of sustainability-linked financing;

• Retained G1/V1 ratings from the Regulator of Social Housing;

• Delivered almost 9,000 new Affordable Homes;

• Introduced the Customer First transformation programme;

• Built a reputation as a sector thought leader in Sustainability, investment and delivery.

To support a stable leadership transition, we have also announced that Chair John Weguelin will extend his tenure by up to one year. Chief Financial Officer Rosemary Farrar will also remain in post until the end of 2026 . The search for a new Chief Executive will begin shortly. 

John Weguelin, Chair, said: “Elizabeth has been an inspirational leader since joining in 2019. She has guided Platform through some of the most challenging years in the sector while maintaining growth, innovation and stability. She is widely respected for her strategic leadership and sector-wide influence—not just in shaping Platform, but in contributing to national thinking on housing delivery, governance, and funding. While we’re sorry to see her move on, we wish her every success and remain focused on a smooth transition and delivery of our long-term strategy.” 

Froude will remain in post until early 2026.