The Challenge
Building safety had become an increasingly important strategic priority for Local Space as regulatory expectations continued to evolve. The organisation required a senior leader who could strengthen statutory compliance while providing clear assurance to the Executive Team, Audit and Risk Committee and Board.
The role extended beyond managing the "Big 6" compliance areas. It demanded someone capable of overseeing complex third-party landlord assurance arrangements, improving compliance reporting and data quality, preparing the organisation for future Building Safety Act requirements and ensuring Local Space was ready as its housing portfolio continued to grow. Finding a leader with both the technical expertise and the ability to provide confidence at board level was critical.
The Solution
Neemar shaped the search around the risk behind the brief. Local Space needed a leader who could translate regulatory requirements into board confidence, resident safety and better operational control.
The appointed leader brought deep housing compliance experience, building safety knowledge and senior assurance expertise across registered provider and local authority settings. Their background included Building Safety Act preparation, Higher-Risk Building registration, Safety Case development, Golden Thread implementation, resident engagement, regulator liaison, contractor oversight and multidisciplinary team leadership.
The Outcome
Local Space appointed a senior building safety and compliance leader with the technical depth, governance experience and housing knowledge required for the role.
The appointment strengthened Local Space’s capacity across statutory compliance, building safety and assurance. It also created clearer ownership for board reporting, compliance data, contractor performance, regulatory engagement and preparation for future building safety requirements.
The Impact
The appointment provided Local Space with dedicated leadership at a time when regulatory scrutiny and building safety expectations continue to increase. Alongside strengthening day-to-day compliance oversight, the organisation enhanced its ability to evidence assurance, manage third-party compliance risk and prepare for future regulatory change.
With clear ownership of building safety, statutory compliance and board assurance, Local Space is better positioned to support organisational growth while maintaining confidence that resident safety, governance and regulatory responsibilities remain at the centre of decision making.
