With extensive experience and a deep-rooted passion for supporting older people, Tracey Howatt has been named Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Bield. This new appointment comes as we look to strengthen our Independent Living Approach and continue to expand the way we help people live longer, more fulfilled lives at home and in their communities.
Since starting as a trainee in 1986, Tracey has developed a strong track record of leadership within Bield, culminating in her most recent role as Director of Customer Experience.
Her new role as COO will see her take responsibility for the operational delivery of services, while also acting as Deputy to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Debbie Collins, CEO of Bield, said: “Tracey has shown outstanding leadership and a deep understanding of what matters most to our tenants and customers.
“Her appointment strengthens our focus on growing Bield’s Independent Living Approach and ensuring our services continue to meet the evolving needs of older people across Scotland.
“I’m delighted to welcome her into this key leadership role and look forward to working closely with her as we deliver our strategy.”
Tracey brings unrivalled insight into the needs of customers and tenants, having led some of the most transformative changes in service delivery in recent years.
She will now help oversee the implementation of long-term plans to ensure services continue evolving to meet the expectations of a new generation of older people – with digital innovation, co-production and energy efficiency remaining key priorities.
The new role will see Tracey take an even more hands-on approach to supporting more than 5,000 tenants across over 170 developments – while championing co-designed services and the voice of older people in shaping how housing and care are delivered in Scotland.
Tracey said: “My working life has been dedicated to Bield, and I feel privileged to have this opportunity to lead more widely across the organisation.
“The work we’re doing to enhance the homes and services we provide is truly exciting. I look forward to the journey ahead and to continuing to make a positive difference in the lives of the people we support.”
Over the past year, we have made strong progress towards our ambitious goals - reducing energy use by nearly 6%, investing in new digital tools to enhance tenant safety and wellbeing and helping tenants to access an additional £1.28 million in financial support through our income advice team.
We are also investing heavily in workforce development, supported by a new People Strategy designed to boost recruitment, skills, and wellbeing – reinforcing our status as a people-centred employer.
Tracey’s appointment is expected to play a pivotal role in sustaining momentum as we pursue our mission to enable older people to live independently and with choice.