Major honour for Derry-based academic described as an 'influential player' in the Irish housing industry

A Derry-based academic has received a major accolade.

Ulster University’s Emeritus Housing Professor Paddy Gray, who is based at the university’s Magee campus, has been named the top ‘Power Player’ in the UK Housing Market by 24 Housing Magazine.

The award is the UK housing sector’s top accolade.

A magazine spokesman said: “Paddy Gray was nominated from every corner of the UK and Ireland, with one nominator stating ‘He is a truly dedicated professional and an asset to the sector in the UK, Ireland and worldwide. It is not often you can say that about a person, when we all have such busy hectic lives’.”

“He has been an influential player in Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland, chairing housing associations and sitting on boards on both sides of the border.

“He has also been Chartered Institute of Housing president, bringing together groups from both sides of the border to share best practice and work closer together.”

Professor Gray became the only Irish President of the Chartered Institute of Housing from 2010 to 2011.

The organisation sets professional standards in the housing sector in the UK and Ireland and abroad and provides an independent voice for the housing sector.

Picture above - Connswater Homes board members congratulate Professor Paddy Gray on becoming the top housing ‘Power Player (from left to right) Kelly Andrews, board member, Robbie Davis, honorary secretary, Martin Leahy, honorary treasurer with Professor Paddy Gray, chair of Connswater Homes.