After a competitive recruitment process, Abri has appointed Maggie Porteous as the Chair of Octavia Foundation. The Octavia Foundation is a charity subsidiary of the group, part of Octavia Housing, which joined Abri in December 2024.
Maggie brings to the role 31 years’ experience at the John Lewis Partnership including nine years as a Trustee and five years as the Chair of the John Lewis Foundation. Maggie is currently Vice Chair of The Riverside Group’s Board and an Abri Group Board Member.
On her appointment, Maggie Porteous said:
“Having worked with Abri’s Board and Executive Team over the last few years I’ve seen first-hand the dedication and commitment Abri has towards delivering quality homes and services. I’m excited to join the Octavia Foundation at such an exciting time as Abri explores the future of the charity and realises its full potential in helping create thriving communities.”
In October 2025 Abri announced that Ralph Facey, Abri’s Chief Operating Officer, would step down from his role and take on the role of Managing Director of the Octavia Foundation ahead of retirement. As part of his role, Ralph will be responsible for authoring and implementing a new strategy for the Foundation.
On Maggie’s appointment, Ralph Facey said:
“I’m delighted to have Maggie join the Octavia Foundation. Maggie will work with me to develop and oversee the delivery of a new strategy for the Foundation that aims to establish a strong voice within the sector and beyond, sharing good practice to raise sector standards and influence positive change in housing policy. All of this will help ensure Octavia Hill’s legacy lives and breathes in our communities.”
Mary Gibbons, Abri’s Regional Managing Director for London, will take over as Chief Operating Officer. There will be an extended period of handover between Ralph and Mary, with both formally taking on their new roles with full effect from April 2026.