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Amy Rees appointed Chief Executive at Homes England

Homes England has appointed Amy Rees CB as its next Chief Executive Officer, tasking her with leading the agency’s drive to tackle the housing crisis and deliver 1.5 million new homes during this Parliament.

Amy joins the agency with a distinguished public service career, having held senior strategic and operational leadership roles across the UK’s criminal justice system. Most recently, as Chief Executive of His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS), she oversaw one of the country’s most complex public services. She will now bring her expertise in delivering reform and driving large-scale transformation to the housing sector, working closely with partners to advance the government’s priorities.

Reporting directly to the Homes England Board and accountable to the Deputy Prime Minister, the Housing Minister, and Parliament, Amy will guide the organisation through a crucial period of change. Her focus will include strengthening regional delivery, deepening collaboration with stakeholders and ensuring Homes England’s work remains fully aligned with national housing objectives.

Key priorities under her leadership will include rolling out the agency’s new regional operating model to boost housing outcomes across England and overseeing the launch of the National Housing Bank – an initiative expected to unlock over £53 billion in private investment to accelerate homebuilding. She will also lead a cultural transformation within the agency, safeguard public funds and enhance engagement with both local and national government partners.

Amy Rees CB said: ‘It is a huge privilege to join Homes England and lead those responsible for delivering such a critical agenda for our country. The housing crisis is one of the most urgent challenges facing our country and I look forward to working closely with colleagues, government, industry, and communities to deliver the homes people need.’

Before joining Homes England, Amy served as Interim Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Justice, leading the department through major operational reforms and spending review negotiations. Her previous roles include Chief Executive of Prisons and Probation and Director General for Probation, Wales and Youth Justice. Earlier this year, she was made a Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB) in recognition of her services to justice.

Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said: ‘Today marks a momentous step for Homes England and I am delighted that Amy will be leading the charge to help us turn the tide on the housing crisis.

‘I know Amy’s exceptional leadership and track record makes her the ideal choice as we work together to build 1.5 million homes, deliver the biggest expansion in social and affordable housing in a generation and raise living standards in every region across the country.’

Pat Ritchie CBE, Chair of Homes England said: ‘Amy is a truly inspiring appointment. Her energy, clarity of purpose and operational grip make her ideally placed to lead Homes England into its next chapter. With housing central to the UK’s growth ambitions, her leadership will drive our strategic plan, boost delivery and further embed Homes England as a key partner across regions.’

Amy will start her role at Homes England on Monday 8 September 2025.

Paul Day
Paul is the editor of Public Sector News.
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