The Property Ombudsman has confirmed the appointment of Lesley Horton as Ombudsman and Andy Clachers as Chief Executive Officer, following interim spells in the roles earlier this year.
Both Lesley and Andy (pictured) formally stepped into their positions in February 2025, overseeing a change programme focused on modernising operations. Key priorities have included streamlining the casework process, expanding government engagement, and launching a new website and updated customer forms.
Lesley brings extensive regulatory and compliance experience, having held senior roles at the Solicitors Regulation Authority and in a global compliance position at a FTSE 100 company. She currently sits on the Independent Decision-making Body Board. and previously served on the ethics and integrity panel for the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner in Cumbria.
Andy, who has now been confirmed as CEO, spent 17 years in senior financial services roles at AXA and Standard Life in Asia. He returned to the UK to lead regional operations at Belvoir Group as Managing Director in Scotland.
Claire Bassett, Chair of The Property Ombudsman, said, “The Board have been impressed by the significant improvement made within the organisation in recent months.
“Together with increased external presence at conferences and meetings with key stakeholders and members, the positive impact is encouraging as TPO continues improving its customer journey.”
