NHIC Welcomes Lord Knight and Lord Foster as Co-Presidents 

As part of our 50th Anniversary year, NHIC is proud to welcome Rt Hon Lord Jim Knight of Weymouth and Rt Hon Lord Don Foster of Bath as our new Co-Presidents, ushering in a new season of collaboration, cooperation, and shared purpose across the UK home improvement sector.

This unique cross-party partnership reflects the values at the heart of the NHIC: unity of purpose, the power of shared outcomes, and a belief that quality home improvement transforms lives, livelihoods, and communities.

Together, Jim and Don bring deep experience across education, skills policy, housing, energy efficiency, consumer protection, and social value, perfectly aligned to NHIC’s mission to ensure homes are improved by a workforce that is competent, trusted, and supported.

“This joint presidency represents a powerful signal of shared leadership, bridging political divides to champion professionalism, unlock opportunity, and deliver real change for real people.”

— Anna Scothern, NHIC Chief Executive

Their appointment signals a new chapter for NHIC: one that celebrates 50 years of legacy while looking firmly ahead to the next generation of improvement professionals, empowered homeowners, and greener, safer homes.

We thank Lord Knight and Lord Foster for their leadership, insight, and commitment to the values that matter most to NHIC members and the millions of people whose homes we serve.

— Lord Jim Knight of Weymouth

“Throughout my career, I’ve championed the importance of skills, social mobility, and meaningful employment. The NHIC’s work aligns perfectly with these values, recognising the contribution of skilled tradespeople, supporting SMEs, and ensuring that home improvement drives inclusive, place-based growth. I’m honoured to serve as Co-President at a time when collaboration and practical delivery matter more than ever.”

— Lord Don Foster of Bath

“The home is at the heart of energy efficiency, safety, and well-being. I’ve long advocated for better housing policy and consumer protections, and the NHIC plays a vital role in connecting policy, practice, and people. I’m proud to support this next chapter of NHIC’s work, which puts quality, competence, and trust at the centre of the industry.”