John Hocking appointed new Executive Director of the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust

John Hocking will take responsibility for overseeing the operational work of the JRHT. He will also lead the JRHT to demonstrate practical solutions to tackle poverty and social disadvantage through the provision of our housing, community and care operations.

Julia Unwin, Chief Executive of the JRF and JRHT, said: "John has had a long and distinguished career leading housing management and development and offers us extensive experience, and commitment to service improvement and resident engagement. As well as his outstanding experience in all aspects of housing, John is also alert to the very different challenges met through our care homes and adult services review. He has the understanding, insight and interest to combine the different elements of our operational work to maximise the impact of the Housing Trust as a whole."

John Hocking commented: "As the vacancy advert said, this is a unique job, for a unique organisation. I am looking forward to overseeing the many practical projects that affect real change to people’s lives. I am also excited about the opportunity this role offers to have a huge influence on the national social housing and care agenda." 

Notes to editors 

John Hocking will take up his new position in early May. A summary of his career is below.

Current position
Director of Housing, Hull City Council since 2006

Previous positions

• Chief Officer, Leeds North West Homes 2002-2006
• Assistant Director Housing Services, City of York 1996-2002
• Head of Tenant Services, York City Council 1994-96
• Special Projects Officer Chief Executives Department, Sheffield City Council 1991 - 1994
• Area Housing Manager Sheffield MDC 1988-91
• Assistant area Manager Sheffield MDC 1986-88
• Senior management Officer 1983 -86
• Housing trainee and Estate officer LB Southwark 1979-83.