Housebuilder Strata has named James Thomson CBE as its new Non-Executive Director.
James will provide independent challenge, guidance and strategic support to the Board, working alongside the senior leadership team as Strata continues to strengthen its position as a collaborative, purpose-led housebuilder delivering sustainable growth.
James brings extenstive experience
With extensive leadership experience across both the public and private sectors, James brings more than a decade of board-level experience within the housing sector, including senior roles with Keepmoat and MJ Gleeson. His career highlights include supporting the completion of the sale of Keepmoat Regeneration to Engie for £330m, alongside helping to shape and lead businesses through periods of significant change and growth. In 2022, as Chief Executive, he led MJ Gleeson to a record delivery of 2,000 homes together with achieving top decile employee engagement.
Strata’s appointment of James comes at an important stage in the company’s evolution. The business has successfully developed from a traditional housebuilder into a multi-tenure partnership business, with more than 50% of homes now delivered through partnerships, including affordable housing and single-family rental.
As the housing sector continues to navigate significant challenges, Strata identified the need for a Non-Executive Director who could bring deep industry knowledge, fresh perspective and constructive challenge, while sharing the company’s commitment to creating positive outcomes for people and communities.
Strata’s expansion supported by the new appointment
The appointment also comes as Strata expands its geographic reach, with its first development in the North East now underway, supporting the company’s continued growth ambitions.
Commenting on his appointment, James said, “I am delighted to be joining Strata at a time when the business has successfully pivoted towards a true partnership model, positioning it to benefit from growth in the housing market. Strata’s pipeline of sites will support the delivery of much needed new homes for open market sale as well as for affordable rent. As an inclusive, people centred, design led housebuilder focused on collaboration, community, sustainability, and continually striving for better, Strata’s values closely align with my own.”
Gemma Smith, CEO at Strata, added, “James’ appointment feels like a natural fit for Strata. Alongside his extensive industry experience and leadership insight, it is his understanding of culture, people and purpose-led business that makes him such a valuable addition to our Board.
“As we continue to evolve and grow, having James’ perspective and experience will help us continue to challenge ourselves, make the right decisions and build a strong, sustainable future for the business. We are excited to welcome James and look forward to benefiting from his knowledge, guidance and support.”
