New head of policy joins CIH

We’re pleased to announce that last week, Rachael Williamson joined the Chartered Institute of Housing as our new head of policy and external affairs. Rachael brings with her a strong mix of central government and charity experience, having worked at the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), Cabinet Office and Defra, as well as Citizens Advice.

Rachael said: “I am delighted to be joining the CIH team. The last 20 months have highlighted just how important housing is to people’s everyday lives and I am honoured to be joining an organisation that is focussed on helping to deliver quality housing for everyone.”

At DLUHC, Rachael’s roles spanned across the housing sector and involved developing and implementing policy, managing projects, taking through legislation and working closely with ministers and special advisers. She also worked as part of the central strategy and delivery team. In her most recent role at Citizens Advice, she led on communications, research and fundraising, helping to raise profile and funds and to strengthen their partnership links.

James Prestwich, CIH director of policy and external affairs said:

“I’m incredibly excited to have Rachael’s joining us in the CIH policy team. She brings with her an abundance of knowledge and experience which will ensure we can continue to represent the voice of our members through our policy strategy and increase our visibility in the housing sector.”

Rachael has a Modern European Studies degree from Nottingham University and is a currently a board trustee for charity, The Giving Machine. Alongside working for CIH she is studying for a Certificate in Professional Marketing with the Chartered Institute of Marketing. She lives with her husband and two children in Hertfordshire.