Social landlord Abri has announced two new appointments which it says will further strengthen and diversify its group board.

David Montague, former L&Q Chief Executive, and Veronica Gordon, broadcast journalist turned social entrepreneur, will join the board in May.

Veronica, a long-standing customer of Abri, is a former BBC local radio and ITV regional news journalist and the founder of Our Version Media – a Southampton-based organisation that increases positive and authentic representation of Black and marginalised communities.

David spent more than 30 years with L&Q, including a spell as Group Finance Director and 12 years as Chief Executive. While at L&Q, he oversaw an ambitious period of growth, leading the organisation successfully through mergers and partnerships to create a housing association with a portfolio of 110,000 homes.

Wayne Morris, Group Chair, said: “Veronica and David bring valued skills and capabilities to our board. Both demonstrate a strong commitment to our social purpose of creating communities and empowering lives. We are delighted to have attracted two high calibre individuals who share Abri’s espoused values.”

Gary Orr, Group Chief Executive, added: “These appointments represent another important step in our journey to challenge ourselves and make our board as diverse and as relevant as possible. This will be critical in the successful delivery of our refreshed strategy. I warmly welcome Veronica and David to Abri and look forward to the different lived experiences and perspectives they each will bring.”

Speaking about her appointment, Veronica said: “I’m beyond happy to be joining the board. I’m looking forward to helping Abri connect with its communities in new and creative ways and to bring the voice of the customer into the heart of the boardroom.”

David commented: “I’m delighted to be joining Abri’s board. It’s an organisation I know well and respect for its ambitious and progressive strategy I’m looking forward to helping Abri navigate an increasingly challenging environment whilst delivering its bold ambitions.”