12 June 2025
Summary:Duncan Brown appointed as MTVH Chief Financial Officer. He will join MTVH in July 2025 and serve as a member of the main board as well as the executive team.
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Duncan Brown as our new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Duncan brings more than two decades of experience in senior financial and operational roles within the affordable housing sector and joins MTVH from VIVID, where he has served as CFO for the past 10 years.
Duncan will succeed Ian Johnson, who in January this year announced his intention to retire after a decade of service at MTVH. During Ian’s tenure, MTVH has built a reputation for robust financial governance, strong stakeholder confidence, and consistent delivery of results — reflected in its A- credit ratings and maintained V2 financial viability rating from the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH).
The appointment follows a rigorous and competitive selection process led by MTVH Chief Executive, Mel Barrett and supported by members of the Board. The process sought to identify a candidate with the experience, values and vision to help shape the financial strategy supporting MTVH’s next phase of development as it prepares to launch its new Corporate Strategy 2026–31.
Duncan has a track record of innovation including: issuing the sector’s first Green Loan, attracting investment from the U.S. into UK affordable housing, and leading on the development of the Sustainability Standards for Social Housing (SRS). Under Duncan’s financial leadership, VIVID significantly expanded its development programme, and achieved and maintained the highest governance and viability ratings from the Regulator.
Duncan’s expertise extends beyond finance. He was a key member of the team that successfully delivered the merger of First Wessex and Sentinel to form VIVID in 2017. He also serves as a Non-Executive Director at Settle Housing and is involved in the Smart Cities movement, championing the role of social housing in inclusive urban development.
Duncan will join MTVH in July 2025, ensuring a smooth and orderly handover with outgoing CFO Ian Johnson. He will serve as a member of the main board as well as the executive team.
Commenting on the appointment Mel Barrett, Chief Executive of MTVH said:
“Strong finances are the foundation for achieving our mission to provide people with decent homes and the chance to live well. Duncan’s track record in delivering financial resilience, unlocking funding at scale, and supporting strategic development aligns powerfully with our ambitions for the years ahead. My colleagues and I look forward to working closely with Duncan to realise the potential of the additional funding announced in the government’s spring Spending Review and deliver the new affordable homes that can help solve the housing crisis.”
Althea Efunshile CBE, Chair of MTVH added:
“After a comprehensive search process, we are delighted to welcome Duncan to MTVH. He combines deep sector experience with a clear commitment to strong financial governance, social purpose, and innovation. Duncan’s appointment comes at a pivotal time as we prepare our 2026–31 Corporate Strategy, and his leadership will be key to shaping MTVH’s financial future.”
Responding to his appointment Duncan Brown, incoming Chief Financial Officer of MTVH said:
“I’m so proud to be joining MTVH at such an important and exciting time for the organisation. I’ve long admired MTVH’s values, ambition and impact, and I’m looking forward to working alongside Mel, the Board and the talented team here to help shape the future.With strong financial foundations already in place, I’m looking forward to building on that platform — supporting MTVH to deliver more safe, affordable and sustainable homes, and make a real difference to the communities we serve.”