Matthew Walker steps down as Chair of PlaceShapers
12 November 2026
PlaceShapers Chair Matthew Walker steps down in December after six years in the role, bringing to a close nine years of service on the network’s Board. This is in line with PlaceShapers' governance arrangements, having reached the maximum permitted term.
Matthew, who is chief executive of Leeds Federated Housing Association, has championed the role and impact of place-shaping housing associations and ensured their voices are part of national conversations about housing, communities and regeneration.
A new Chair will be announced by the end of the year, following Matthew's final Board meeting in December.
Matthew Walker said: "Being Chair of PlaceShapers has been an enormous privilege. What makes PlaceShapers special is the commitment of our members to the communities they serve and their determination to help them thrive.
"Our sector has faced considerable challenges over the past six years, but the importance of place-shaping housing associations has never been greater.
“One of my priorities as Chair has been to strengthen the voice and influence of our members and ensure their distinctive contribution is recognised in national housing policy, because I have been lucky enough to see the difference they make in communities across the country.
"Our members play a critical role in regeneration and neighbourhood renewal, creating lasting change by working with their partners and communities. I am pleased that regeneration is now firmly back on the national agenda, with growing recognition and funding for the vital role housing associations play in transforming neighbourhoods and creating places where people can thrive, and I am proud of the role PlaceShapers has played in that.
"I have loved being part of PlaceShapers and grateful to fellow Board members, past and present, our members, the team and partners who have contributed to our work. PlaceShapers has a strong future ahead, and I look forward to continuing to support its work through Leeds Federated's membership."
Catherine Ryder, Chief Executive of PlaceShapers, said: "Matthew has made an outstanding contribution to PlaceShapers over the past nine years. His commitment to our members, belief in the importance of place-shaping and leadership have been invaluable.
"He leaves a strong legacy and an organisation well placed to continue championing the role of housing associations in helping communities thrive.
" His leadership has helped strengthen PlaceShapers' position as an influential, member-led network. We are enormously grateful for everything he has contributed and look forward to building on these foundations as we welcome a new Chair."
Matthew will attend the PlaceShapers annual conference on 17 and 18 November for the final time as Chair, giving members an opportunity to recognise his contribution and look ahead to the organisation's next chapter.