The chief executive of North Hertfordshire Homes has announced his will retire next year after more than a decade at the helm.

Kevin Thompson, who help create the Letchworth-based housing association in 2003 when 8,150 homes were transferred from North Hertfordshire District Council, will retire in June 2015.

In the past 11 years the 62-year-old has overseen the association’s £120m upgrade to the Decent Homes Standard, increased the number of properties to 9,000 and the set up of Rowan Homes – the wholly-owned subsidiary that builds and sells houses with all profit used for affordable housing.

Sandra Gavin from Codicote, who chairs NHH’s Tenants Forum, said: “Kevin has worked tirelessly to achieve the highest standards for social housing. He has a great work ethic, and is truly an all-round kind and understanding gentleman.”

Speaking to staff, Mr Thompson said: “While I love my job and working with you all I have to go at some point, and now seems the right time. Needless to say I will continue to put everything into NHH until June.”