Our Board

Our Board is the governing body of Sussex Housing and Care, responsible for our overall mission, direction and strategy, and conducts its business in accordance with its Rules and regulatory requirements. Our Board ensures we stay ahead by focusing on the future, setting us up to achieve our goals in a strong and ethical manner, putting residents at the heart of what we do. Board members also closely monitor our service performance and financial management, supported by an Audit and Risk Committee.

Mike Shepherd - Chair

Mike Shepherd - Chair

Mike Shepherd is Chief Investment Officer at VIVID. He has over 20 years’ senior experience in the housing sector and has led major real estate projects, developed innovative funding models and strategic partnerships to maximise the delivery of new homes and communities. Mike is Chairman of Sussex Housing & Care and has previously worked within both the traditional and for profit sectors. Mike joined the Board in May 2019. 

Mike Townsend- Vice Chair

Mike Townsend- Vice Chair

Mike is a chartered accountant with over 30 years’ experience across a wide range of sectors, including the NHS and Higher Education. Mike has expertise in governance and risk management, and his career specialised in leading the delivery of Internal Audit and Counter Fraud programmes. In 2024 he retired as Managing Director of Barts Assurance.  Mike joined the board in February 2023, and he was appointed Vice-Chair in February 2024. 

Robin Roberts

Robin Roberts

Robin is Chief Executive of Sutton Housing Society, a small-registered provider, who specialises in providing homes for older people. Robin is uniquely recognised as a fellow of the RIBA and RICS. As well as being chair of the board of Berry Brook Homes / Wokingham Homes Limited, he is chair of the RIBAs fellowship panel. Robin joined the Board in May 2019. 

Vanda Leary

Vanda Leary

Vanda is an experienced programme manager and consultant with particular expertise in the management of change. She has extensive governance experience in a range of not-for-profit organisations as charity trustee, non-executive director, school governor and member of various sub-committees. She is a Chartered IT Professional and brings many years of experience in working with local authorities and commissioners of care. Vanda joined the Board in February 2023.  

Mark Lloyd

Mark Lloyd

After 45 years working in the public and charitable sectors, Mark continues to contribute as a Board Member in his retirement.  During his working career he led a number of national social care charities over a 25-year period with distinction Mark has a passion for achieving quality outcomes for tenants and residents. Mark joined the Board in February 2025. 

Philippa Mariani

Philippa Mariani

Philippa was formerly the Chief Executive at Think Ahead, a national mental health workforce charity that recruits and trains mental health social workers. She has extensive experience in the voluntary sector including mental health, housing, social care, and health advocacy. Philippa is a strong advocate for co-production, customer and user engagement, and amplifying the consumer voice. Philippa joined the Board in February 2025.