Stonewater chair steps down after seven-year stint
Sheila Collins has decided to call time at affordable housing group Stonewater, with replacement Angus Michie set to take over in October.
Prior to becoming chair, Collins had held committee roles with Stonewater and its predecessor, Raglan housing association, since 2011. Having signed up for a six-year tenure as chair in 2019, she extended this for a further year to support the appointment of Stonewater’s new CEO, Jonathan Layzell, in June 2025.
The group manages more than 40,000 homes across the country, including several thousand in the Midlands region.
“It’s been a real honour to steer Stonewater’s vision for the customers and communities we serve,” said Collins.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with a fantastic Board and Executive team who have so ably navigated some very challenging times. I have every confidence that Angus will continue to build on Stonewater’s strength and success. He has a deep commitment to our social ethos combined with brilliant commercial acumen. I look forward to seeing the organisation continue to flourish in the years ahead and know I’m leaving things in the very best hands.”
Chartered surveyor Michie currently serves on the board as chair of Homes and Development Challenge and Assurance Panel, chair of Stonewater Developments Limited and chair of Stonewater Commercial Limited.
He is a qualified chartered surveyor with 30 years’ experience in the residential development industry and spent 25 years with the Berkeley Group. As Divisional Chairman of several of the Berkeley Group’s operational businesses across the UK, he has been responsible for a number of the group’s joint ventures, including the Prudential and various local authorities.
Angus Michie will take over as chair in October. Credit: Stonewater
He is also the Managing Director of SevenCapital, which is a developer of residential and mixed-use communities across London, the Midlands and the Southeast.
“Providing social housing is not simply about building properties and handing over some keys. I firmly believe everyone deserves a home that is designed and built to a high standard, in communities that are wonderful places to live and that enable people to thrive.,” he said.
“The UK’s housing crisis is as compelling as ever. Sky-high private rents, economic pressures, the basic cost of living and job and fuel insecurity all create immense strain for families across the country. Sheila has always been committed to ensuring that Stonewater is part of the solution and while she’s set a very high bar to follow, I’m committed to using my time as Chair to provide as many people as we can with a place where they can feel safe, secure and proud to call home.”
Stonewater’s Chief Executive, Jonathan Layzell, added: “It’s been an absolute privilege to work with Sheila who has always put customers at the heart of every decision. I’m hugely grateful for her support and wisdom in helping me settle into my role as CEO – even delaying her departure for a year to support the transition.
“Looking forward, Angus brings his own passion and unique expertise, which I’m confident will ensure Stonewater’s continuing success.”
