Appointment of four MHCLG Non-Executive Directors
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has confirmed the appointment of four new Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) to the MHCLG Board.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has today (16 October) confirmed the appointment of four new Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) to the MHCLG Board.
Nick Forbes CBE, Sarah Longlands, Ada Burns and Harris Bokhari OBE join the board to support and strengthen the department’s work. They will work alongside Mo Baines, whose current term as interim Lead NED ends on 20 April 2026. The recruitment campaign for the permanent Lead NED will launch shortly.
This is a pivotal time for MHCLG as the department focuses on delivering more homes, reforming the planning system, improving building safety, and empowering local government to help communities thrive. The new NEDs will provide strategic insight and independent challenge, which will be essential in helping the department meet its goals and respond to the needs of communities across the country. The appointments reflect the department’s commitment to collaborative, community-focused policy and delivery.
MHCLG Permanent Secretary, Dame Sarah Healey, said:
I’m delighted to welcome our new Non-Executive Directors to the MHCLG Board. Together, they bring a wealth of expertise and experience from across different sectors.
Their insight and strategic leadership will play a vital role in helping the department achieve its core missions - boosting economic growth, delivering more affordable homes, supporting strong local government and improving the lives of communities across the country.”
Further information:
- Departmental NEDs sit on the MHCLG Board, and are responsible for providing strategic leadership, scrutinising performance, promoting transparency and taking a long-term view of the department’s business and planning.
Background on the new appointments:
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Nick Forbes CBE: Former Leader of Newcastle City Council and the LGA Labour Group, Nick brings extensive experience in devolution, regional empowerment, and national policy strategy.
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Sarah Longlands: Chief Executive of CLES, Sarah is a leading advocate for community wealth building and inclusive economic development.
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Ada Burns: Chair of Teesside University board of governors and former CEO of Darlington Borough Council, Ada brings deep expertise in regeneration, governance, and place-based leadership.
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Harris Bokhari OBE: Chair of the National Citizen Service Trust and founder of the Patchwork Foundation, Harris is a champion of civic participation and youth engagement. Harris will chair the MHCLG Audit and Risk Assurance Committee (ARAC).