Orbit has appointed Jonathan Hazeldine as its new Head of Empty Homes Renovations, a newly created role aimed at strengthening the quality and consistency of its empty homes programme.

Jonathan joins the not-for-profit housing provider after nearly 20 years with Travelodge, where he developed extensive commercial property experience. Most recently, he served as Operations Manager for the hotel chain’s national refurbishment programme, overseeing large-scale upgrades across its portfolio.

In his new position, Jonathan will lead the development of a new empty homes standard and coordinate refurbishment activity across Orbit’s portfolio of approximately 47,000 homes. The role is central to Orbit’s focus on improving relet quality and ensuring homes are ready for incoming customers at a consistently high standard.

Jonathan commented:

“In hospitality, our aim was always to make customers feel like they were the very first people to stay in their room. I want to bring that same mindset to our empty homes, raising lettable standards and refining our specifications so that every new customer walks into a home that feels fresh, high-quality, and ready for them to make their own. I was particularly drawn to Orbit’s genuine commitment to improving customer experience and the opportunity this role offers to make a real and lasting difference to people’s lives.”

Jacqui Campbell, Director of Home Safety and Improvements at Orbit, added:

“Providing customers with safe homes that they can be proud of, is fundamental to what we do. This new role gives us a clear focus on such an important area. Jonathan brings a depth of refurbishment experience from outside the sector, alongside an engaging, people-focused approach, innovation and a strong emphasis on value for money across the supply chain—and he is already making a positive difference.”

Jonathan’s appointment reflects Orbit’s ongoing commitment to enhancing customer experience, improving property standards and delivering high-quality homes across its communities.