The overall control and governance of the work of the Association is provided by the Board of Management.

Members of the Board serve in a voluntary capacity and they bring a range of skills and experience to the Association.

Meet our Board

  • Brian Dunn

    CHAIR

    Brian has extensive leadership experience in community development and housing. Through self-education, practical expertise and a lifelong commitment to community empowerment, Brian is committed to improving outcomes for all residents in North Belfast.

  • Vivian Chestnutt

    VICE CHAIR
    Chair of HR & Renumeration Committee

    Vivian has over 25 years’ experience in housing with the Housing Executive and Ulster University. Growing up in north Belfast gives him a strong understanding of local communities and their challenges. A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Housing with an MBA in Policy Analysis, he combines strategic expertise with active community leadership.

  • Ciaran McGivern

    TREASURER
    Chair of Investment Committee

    Ciaran is a qualified accountant and experienced senior leader with expertise in banking, development finance and financial reporting. As Treasurer, he brings strong commercial and governance experience, with a proven track record in operational change, performance improvement and supporting strategic investment, providing valuable financial leadership as Grove delivers new homes.

  • Sally Smyth

    BOARD MEMBER
    Chair of Housing & Assets Committee

    Alongside a BSc (Hons) in Housing with a Diploma in Industrial Studies, Sally is driven by a commitment to excellence, customer satisfaction, and delivering results. Sally applies strategic vision to navigate complexity and drive organisational success.

  • Mike Wilkins

    BOARD MEMBER
    Chair of Audit & Risk Committee

    Mike is a qualified housing professional (CIH) and, as a former CEO of a successful Housing Association, brings a strong track record in innovative development, commercial property, and strategic asset management. Motivated by delivering more sustainable homes and long-term value, Mike combines strategic insight with hands-on leadership.

  • Fauzia Tasnim

    BOARD MEMBER

    Fauzia Tasnim is a construction and project management professional with over four years’ experience across architecture, project planning, and site management. Holding a Bachelor of Architecture and an MSc in Construction Project Management from Queen’s University, her insight has been invaluable to Grove’s recent development work.

  • Diarmaid Ward

    BOARD MEMBER

    Diarmaid is an experienced former Councillor and has a formidable track record in policy leadership and negotiation, securing landmark legal rulings and high proportions of genuinely affordable homes. Diarmaid is driven by a motivation to expand social and affordable housing and challenge inequitable development practices. He is a Senior Policy Researcher in the House of Commons and PhD candidate at Barlett School of Planning.

  • Stefano Zucca

    BOARD MEMBER

    Stefano is a qualified architectural professional with a Master’s in Sustainability and Design, as well as a Certified Passive House Designer bringing fantastic knowledge to our new Passive house development. With extensive experience leading residential and mixed-use projects, Stefano is motivated by a commitment to socially equitable and sustainable communities. He values the life opportunities good housing provides for children and spent time volunteering with young people in Northern Ireland.

  • Karen McAlister

    BOARD MEMBER

    Dr Karen McAlister has over 30 years’ experience in the voluntary sector, including 25 years as a qualified social worker, and has held senior leadership roles at Simon Community for the past 11 years. Karen is motivated by a desire to contribute her expertise in impact, strategy and innovation. Her recent PhD achievement underpins her practice with strong research and academic skills.

  • Alison Allen

    BOARD MEMBER

    Alison is a committed senior public sector executive with 20+ years’ executive and Board level experience across governance, policy and community service delivery in Northern Ireland. Chief Executive of NI Local Government Association, she has a strong track record in working with Councils and leading neighbourhood services, community safety programmes and capital investment.

Our Leadership

  • Agnes Crawford

    CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
    BOARD SECRETARY

    Agnes has over 30 years’ experience in the non-profit sector, including 25 years in social housing. Chief Executive of Grove Community Housing Association since 2019, she has extensive expertise in governance, strategic leadership, regulatory compliance and organisational change, complemented by board roles across the housing and charitable sectors.

  • Keelan McGaghran

    DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

    Keelan has extensive social housing experience across Northern Ireland, the UK and Australia. As Director of Operations at Grove Community Housing Association, he leads day-to-day services and operational performance. Previously with Radius Housing and Apex Housing Association, he has expertise in housing management, service improvement, governance and resident-focused service delivery.

  • Paul Stuart

    HOUSING & COMMUNITY LEAD

    Paul has over a decade of experience in social housing and community services. As Housing and Community Lead at Grove Community Housing Association, he oversees housing services, tenant engagement and policy development. Recognised with a NIFHA Shining Star Award, he is committed to delivering high-quality, resident-focused services and strengthening local communities.