Senior Leadership Team
Karen Stuart
Chief Executive
BA(Hons), PG Cert in Leadership and Management: Homelessness and Housing, MCIH
Karen was appointed PRHA’s CEO in June 2026 after over 25 years with the organisation, including time as both the Director of Operations and Deputy CEO. Karen brings extensive experience of the supported housing sector and understands first hand the need for safe, secure homes and support for the most vulnerable members of society.
“Our focus continues to be that we to ensure our residents feel safe, respected and truly at home, as an organisation we build on our existing strengths and evolve to meet the changing needs and challenges ahead.”
Layo Salako
Director of Finance
BA (Hons), MBA, FCCA, MCIH
Layo manages both the finance and IT departments. She has been working in finance in housing association for over 15 years. She ensures that the Board has up to date financial results and planning information to inform PRHA’s strategies.
‘I am responsible for ensuring that PRHA’s finances are well managed and support its core mission to provide good quality housing and support services’
Abdi Wakil
Assistant Director Resident Services
BSC (Hons), MCIH
Abdi has been with PRHA since May 2017 having previously worked in larger housing associations. He brings a track record of operational experience and a commitment to high quality services with a strong focus on ensuring the very best services for our residents. Abdi is the lead on health and safety and building safety and oversees all operational departments.
"At PRHA we are committed to promoting and delivering equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in the workplace and do our best to recruit locally whenever possible."
Mary Kneafsey
Assistant Director Client Services
Dip (Drug and Alcohol), ENG, MCIH
Mary has been leading the supported housing services at PRHA for 20 years. She started her career in nursing and then working for homelessness charities. She is responsible for all of the staff and residents in our Rough sleepers, mental health and young people’s services. Mary works in partnership with a wide range of agencies to provide coordinated services for our residents.
‘We are constantly looking for new ways to support our residents to lead more fulfilling, healthier, independent lives’.
Stewart McPhillips
Head of Business Development
Stewart is responsible for PRHA's building developments, environmental strategy, fundraising and tendering.
