Emma Palmer to step down as Chief Executive of Eastlight

Emma Palmer has announced her decision to step down as Chief Executive of Eastlight Community Homes on 24 June 2026, after eight years in the role.

Emma has led Eastlight through a period of significant growth and change, including the creation of the organisation in 2020, bringing together Colne Housing and Greenfields Community Housing. Since then, Eastlight has delivered almost 2,000 new homes and strengthened its services for residents.

Eastlight is a strong and stable organisation, with high governance and financial ratings and improving resident satisfaction. There will be no change to services, and Eastlight remains fully committed to delivering for residents and partners.

Dan Jones, Deputy Chief Executive, has stepped into the role of Acting Chief Executive. Chris Cheshire has been appointed Interim Chair following the sad passing of Chair Hattie Llewelyn-Davies. Hattie was due to reach the end of her term in September, and the recruitment process for a new Chair was already underway.

Emma said: “I’m very proud of everything we have achieved at Eastlight, and I know I am leaving the organisation in a strong position for the future. I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to our incredible and dedicated staff, to our partners across the housing sector, with whom I’ve worked to advocate for housing at a local, regional and national level, and to our community partners, whose relationships make our work on behalf of our residents and neighbourhoods possible. Most importantly, thank you to our residents, who have made my time at Eastlight so worthwhile, particularly those engaged residents who ensure Eastlight is truly resident-led.”

Further updates on the appointment of a new Chief Executive will be shared in due course.