SOVEREIGN Housing Association, which operates in the Basingstoke area, has announced a new finance director to replace Martin Huckerby, who is set to retire in December, following 25 years in the job.

Mark Hattersley, 47, who is currently the director of finance and infrastructure at the University of Staffordshire, will take up his new post in January.

Speaking about his appointment, he said: “It’s a fantastically exciting opportunity and I’m really looking forward to it.”

“Martin has led the finance function very capably since Sovereign was formed, so there’s a hard act to follow. But, I’m looking forward to being part of a very successful team and taking that success forwards.”