Orbit appoints new Chief Development Officer

Orbit has announced the appointment of Brian Nearney as its new Chief Development Officer.

Brian, who was previously Regional Managing Director for Orbit Homes Midlands and South, has been successfully promoted into this newly created role and will be responsible for delivering Orbit’s 2030 New Homes Strategy.

A member of Orbit’s Executive Team and reporting directly to Group Chief Executive, Phil Andrew, Brian will lead Orbit’s Development Team, reflecting the increasing integration of new home building with Orbit’s wider organisational goals, including a strong focus on regeneration.

“This is a well-deserved promotion that recognises Brian’s outstanding contribution to Orbit,” said Phil Andrew, Group Chief Executive for Orbit. “Brian is passionate about delivering high-quality, sustainable, inclusive homes and creating lasting social value. His in-depth industry knowledge, operational expertise, and leadership skills make him well placed to drive Orbit’s development objectives forward.”

Brian brings decades of experience in residential development, having held senior leadership roles with PLC housebuilders and developers before joining Orbit in 2022. In his role as Regional Managing Director, he oversaw the successful delivery of new homes and regeneration projects across the South and Midlands. Prior to this, Brian served as Commercial Director at The University of Cambridge, where he was responsible for its extensive development and housebuilding programme, as well as its land strategy.

Commenting on his appointment, Brian Nearney said: “I am incredibly proud to be given the opportunity to lead the Development business and steer it through this exciting next stage of growth.

“Orbit is extremely well positioned to deliver new affordable homes across our operating regions, and I’ll be supported by a highly capable management team.

“I look forward to continuing to work with Homes England as a strategic partner, along with Local Authorities, landowners, and housebuilders as we continue to deliver our affordable homes and regeneration programmes at pace.”

Photo caption:Brian Nearney