Stockport Homes Group announces appointment of new Chief Executive

Stockport-based housing association, Stockport Homes Group, has announced the appointment of Carmel Chambers as its new Chief Executive ahead of Helen McHale’s retirement in 2026.

Carmel will take the step from her current role as Deputy Chief Executive to replace Stockport Homes Group’s long-standing Chief Executive Helen McHale, who has led the organisation for 20 years.

A Chartered Accountant by profession, Carmel joined Stockport Homes in 2006. During her time with the housing association, she has played a pivotal role in driving the Group’s successful growth, transformation and engagement initiatives and brings expertise in managing diverse services and navigating complex regulatory environments.

Stockport Homes recently celebrated 20 years of delivering excellent services and creating a positive impact across communities. As the Group looks to the future, Carmel Chambers, as the new Chief Executive, will lead on shaping the next chapter, keeping customers at the organisation’s heart. She will also drive forward ambitions to deliver excellent services and outcomes for customers and communities, whilst working closely with Stockport Council to deliver on the town’s wider ambitions within the One Stockport Borough Plan.

Carmel Chambers, newly appointed Chief Executive at Stockport Homes Group, said:

“It is an absolute privilege to serve in my hometown and the people of Stockport. Having been part of Stockport Homes for the last 19.5 years, I am delighted to be able to lead it in its next phase. Significant housing demands and challenges continue. I will be focussing on delivering the best outcomes for our customers, being there for those who need us most, and leading our workforce, of whom I am immensely proud. I am excited to work with the Council, our partners, and stakeholders, as we tackle local challenges together, ensuring the best outcomes for our residents and communities.”

Steve Partridge, Chair of Stockport Homes Board, said:

“We are thrilled that Carmel will be building on her career at Stockport Homes by becoming our new Chief Executive. She lives and works in Stockport and brings a genuine passion for social housing with a strong commitment to working with our customers and communities, alongside an impressive record of leadership and collaboration.

“As Carmel steps into the role, we would also like to recognise and thank Helen for her exceptional dedication and leadership over the past 20 years. Her contribution has shaped who we are today, and we wish her a very happy and well-deserved retirement.”

Cllr Mark Roberts, Leader of Stockport Council, added:

“Congratulations to Carmel on her appointment as Chief Executive of Stockport Homes Group. Carmel brings a wealth of experience, strong leadership and a deep commitment to our communities, and we look forward to continuing our close partnership to deliver excellent housing services, support residents, and realise the ambitions of the One Stockport Borough Plan. We would also like to thank Helen for the outstanding legacy she leaves behind — one that Carmel is superbly placed to take forward.”