Cavanna Homes has appointed highly respected property and regeneration specialist Jason Schofield as its new Non-Executive Chairman, succeeding Keith Miller following his retirement from the role.

Jason brings more than 30 years’ experience across the commercial, residential and mixed-use development sectors, joining the award-winning South West housebuilder as it continues to build on more than a century of housebuilding across the region.

Jason’s connection with Cavanna Homes stretches back almost two decades.

He said: “I first came across Cavanna Homes around 15 to 18 years ago and was always struck by the level of decency and respect that resonated throughout the business.

“Even then, it was clear that this wasn’t a typical housebuilder. There was a genuine family ethos and a commitment to doing the right thing, whether that’s for customers, colleagues, communities or partners.

“One of the notebooks I carry has the words ‘Do the right thing. Always.’ written on the front. It’s a principle that has guided me throughout my career and it’s one of the reasons I was attracted to Cavanna Homes.”

A Chartered Surveyor by profession, Jason began his career in commercial property before moving into housebuilding. He spent ten years with Crest Nicholson as Regional Director and played a key role in major regeneration projects including Bristol Harbourside and Gloucester Docks.

Having worked across England and Wales throughout his career, he brings a combination of commercial and residential expertise that is relatively uncommon within the industry.

Reflecting on his first month in the role, Jason said he had been impressed by the pride people take in the business and the commitment to delivering high-quality homes and communities.

He said: “There is a real focus on creating places that people can be proud to call home, while maintaining the collaborative culture that has been such an important part of the business for generations.

“My role is to help protect that legacy while ensuring the business continues to thrive for the next hundred years.”

Looking ahead, Jason believes the housebuilding industry has a critical role to play in supporting economic growth, but says more must be done to help first-time buyers onto the property ladder.

He said:

“A successful construction industry underpins so much of the British economy. When people buy homes, they invest in furniture, gardens, local businesses and services. Housebuilding creates jobs, supports communities and drives economic growth.

“While there have been positive signals from Government around housing delivery, more support is needed to help first-time buyers achieve home ownership.

“Schemes such as Help to Buy played an important role in supporting buyers and unlocking housing delivery. A well-designed successor scheme could make a significant difference, particularly for younger people who are finding it increasingly difficult to save for a deposit while managing the cost of living.

“First-time buyers are the foundation of a healthy housing market. If we want to see sustained housing growth and deliver the homes the country needs, we must ensure aspiring homeowners have access to the support they need.”

Paying tribute to his predecessor, Jason added:

“Keith has made a significant contribution to Cavanna Homes and I would like to thank him for everything he has done for the business. He leaves behind strong foundations and I am looking forward to building on that success.”

For more information on Cavanna Homes, visit cavannahomes.co.uk