THE chief executive of a housing provider which manages homes in St Helens has joined a regional business leadership team.

The North West Business Leadership Team (NWBLT) has welcomed Steve Coffey as a new member.

Steve is the chief executive of Torus, the region’s largest affordable housing provider, who own and manage around 40,000 homes in St Helens, Warrington, Liverpool and beyond.

Profits generated by group members Torus Developments and HMS are reinvested into the Torus Foundation, a community anchor institution, to fund projects that build social capital and fulfil the group mission of growing stronger communities. Torus operates as a lead strategic partner for St Helens, Warrington and Liverpool Councils, and for the Government’s housing accelerator Homes England.

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Chairman of the North West Business Leadership Team, Jonathan Murphy, said: “I have been keen to ensure that the vital role that affordable housing must play in the future sustainable growth of the region is recognised at the heart of our work – from driving forward the skills agenda through to our journey to net zero.

“Torus are a significant player in this space, and Steve brings a wealth of personal expertise with him, that will add great value to us.  I am very much looking forward to working with him and his team.”

Steve added: “I am delighted to join the NWBLT and look forward to working with the team to share ideas and drive forward opportunities for growth and levelling up.

"Torus is a key investor and catalyst for change in the North West and will play a huge contribution to developing future sustainable places and capturing new jobs and future skills through strong partnerships.

“With the value and expertise of NWBLT colleagues, Torus will be able to enhance these opportunities and support the growth of a prosperous, green and vibrant North West.”