The National Housing Federation’s assistant director of research and futures, Gavin Smart, has been appointed director of policy and practice at the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH).

Gavin will assume his new role on 2 April 2012.

Under Gavin’s leadership the research and futures team produced invaluable work, helping the Federation to achieve a number of major successes on behalf of its members and enabling the organisation to push housing up the political agenda.

David Orr, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation, said: "Gavin's departure is a big loss to the Federation. However, I take solace in the fact that his considerable expertise, passion and drive for success will be retained by the housing sector, where there is still much important work to be done.

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"He will not only be missed for his professional contribution here at the Federation; as a personable, warm and enthusiastic character, he is held in high regard among his colleagues. We wish him all the best in his new role."

Grainia Long, Interim Chief Executive of CIH said: "'The post of director of policy and practice is a critical one for the CIH, and for the profession. We are facing immediate and unprecedented housing pressures that require practical solutions.

"However, we must also keep our focus on the longer term - on a vision that will move us beyond this present housing crisis. I'm delighted that Gavin will help us do just that."

(CD/GK)