Two new directors join top team at Connexus
Connexus welcomes two directors to its new look executive team. James Taylor has become the organisation’s new finance director, with Nick Batt appointed as director of communities and customer service.
James joined in January 2024 as head of finance and procurement, playing a key role in securing £100m of funding towards the end of last year. In his new role James will oversee Connexus’ long- term financial planning as well as leading procurement, development and several other support functions.
Prior to joining Connexus, James worked in housing, retail and financial services in the North West of England.
Nick Batt joins Connexus from Pobl Group - Wales’ largest social landlord and provider of care, support and other accommodation services across South Wales. Prior to joining Pobl, Nick worked in customer-focused roles with organisations primarily in the technology sector, after nearly a decade in financial services. Nick will oversee housing, support and customer services.
On his appointment, James Taylor said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time with Connexus since joining and I’m delighted to have been appointed to the role of finance director.
“Following a successful funding round last year, I’m looking forward to working with our board, executive leadership team and colleagues to maximise the impact of this investment, delivering new rural affordable housing, service improvements and operational efficiencies across Shropshire and Herefordshire. “
Nick Batt said: “I’ve been really impressed with the ambition at Connexus and their clear commitment to supporting rural customers and communities.
“With the sector under pressure, both from an economic and regulatory perspective, I’m confident we can navigate these challenges with a real focus on our customers and what matters most to them. I’m excited to join the executive leadership team as we steer the organisation through an ambitious period of transformation.”
Kate Smith, Connexus chief executive, commented: “I’m really pleased to welcome James and Nick onto the executive leadership team at Connexus.
"Both are proven leaders, and their expertise will be invaluable as we embark on delivering a new corporate plan this spring. Developed alongside our customers, the plan will improve services, deliver new affordable homes and help us become a leading voice for rural affordable housing.”