Bield Housing and Care has officially appointed Debbie Collins as its new Chief Executive, solidifying her leadership after serving in an interim capacity for the past year.
The decision follows a rigorous and competitive recruitment process, culminating in Collins’ appointment to the permanent role.
Paul Edie, chair of Bield’s board, said: “Over the past year, she has shown outstanding leadership, guiding Bield through important milestones and several key achievements. We’re confident that Debbie can successfully drive forward our core purpose – making it possible for more people to live their best lives at home, surrounded by a supportive community.”
A CIMA-qualified accountant, she brings a robust track record of senior leadership across both the public and private sectors, including six years of dedicated experience within the social housing landscape.
Debbie Collins initially joined Bield in early 2023 as its first-ever Chief Operating Officer. In this role, she was instrumental in shaping the organisation’s strategic financial management and operational delivery. Her forward-thinking leadership and extensive knowledge have been pivotal in enhancing Bield’s efficiency and impact across Scotland.
“During my time as Interim CEO, I have had the privilege to see the extraordinary impact our work has on the lives of older people across Scotland. We are ambitious in our goals, from expanding digital innovation to influencing sector-wide policy, and we are determined to play a leading role in shaping the future of housing and care in Scotland,” said Collins.
Debbie Collins Career Overview
Debbie is a Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)-qualified professional, bringing with her over two decades of experience in strategic and financial leadership. Her career spans both the public and private sectors, where she has held senior positions that have shaped operational effectiveness, organisational growth, and service delivery.
Before joining Bield, Debbie had already made a notable impact in the social housing sector with six years of experience in senior roles. Her work in this field demonstrates a deep understanding of the unique challenges and responsibilities associated with providing housing and care for vulnerable populations.
Debbie joined Bield Housing and Care in 2023 as the organisation’s first-ever Chief Operating Officer (COO). In this role, she led on operational and financial strategy, overseeing core services and driving efficiency across the charity. Her leadership style, marked by transparency, collaboration, and innovation, quickly gained the trust of stakeholders and staff.
During her tenure as Interim Chief Executive, she played a pivotal role in stabilising the organisation through a period of change, setting the foundations for long-term growth and modernisation. Her successful transition into the permanent CEO role in 2025 reflects both her capability and vision for the future of supported housing in Scotland.
About Bield Housing and Care
Founded in 1971, Bield Housing and Care began as a single housing development initiative and has since evolved into one of Scotland’s leading housing and care charities. The organisation is driven by its mission to enable older people to live independently and with dignity in their own homes.
Today, Bield supports over 5,000 tenants across more than 170 developments situated throughout Scotland. Its services encompass:
- Retirement and sheltered housing
- Care and support services
- Affordable housing solutions
- Community engagement initiatives
With a reputation for innovation in supported living, Bield continues to lead the way in providing tailored housing options for older people.
Current Financial Standing
As of the latest financial reports, Bield Housing and Care holds an estimated net worth of approximately £80 million, reflecting its extensive portfolio of properties and long-standing investments in community infrastructure. The charity’s income is primarily derived from housing rents, service charges, and government funding, all of which contribute to its sustainable operating model.
The organisation continues to reinvest in its housing stock and service delivery, ensuring that both current and future tenants benefit from high-quality, person-centred support.
