The North West’s largest affordable housing provider Torus has appointed a new Managing Director to its in-house repairs, maintenance and construction contractor, HMS.

John Barrow joined HMS as Operations Director in 2012 before becoming Construction Director seven years ago.

He was appointed as Managing Director following a rigorous recruitment process that saw over 100 people apply for the position.

HMS, which is wholly owned by Torus, has an annual turnover of more than £120 million and employs close to 900 people.

Central to its work is generating profits for the Torus Foundation charity which supports tenants by giving tailored care service and support on health, wellbeing, education, work, training and money matters.

Managing Director at HMS, John Barrow, said:

“I’ve worked in affordable housing for four decades starting as a 16-year-old apprentice electrician with St Helens Council so to be chosen as Managing Director of HMS is really special.

“HMS has a clear plan for the immediate future which will see us focusing solely on repairing and maintaining Torus’ existing homes and helping build new properties to the highest standards.

“To do this we will work in close partnership with Torus to make sure tenants’ often complex needs are met so satisfaction levels are as high as possible.

“By operating more efficiently, we will increase our profit margin allowing Torus Foundation to help a greater number of tenants in need of its vital services.”

Chief Operating Officer at Torus, Cath Murray-Howard, said:

“We have been hugely impressed by John over many years in his senior director roles at HMS and he was the outstanding candidate from a very strong field of applicants including a high-quality shortlist.

“He has been an instrumental part of HMS’s growth and will now work closely with colleagues, our executive team and board to shape the next chapter of HMS’s story.

“John is highly respected and this, coupled with his experience, skills, passion and vision make him ideally placed to drive a positive ‘can do’ culture among colleagues at HMS, which in turn will see us deliver even better services for tenants.”