<p><span>Russell Denness, group ceo of Croudace Homes, has retired from the business with Adrian Watts named as his successor.</span></p> <p><span>Denness steps down from the Caterham-based privately owned housebuilder after nine years as its boss. Watts, who was previously the company’s group deputy ceo from May 2022, joined as md of the North Thames region in 2019.</span></p> <p><span>He boasts 34 years of industry experience, progressing to director level of a number of major housebuilders. A chartered surveyor, Watts also holds a Master of Sciences and a Master of Laws and has a “detailed knowledge” of residential developments and construction management, according to Croudace.</span></p> <p><span>Watts said: “I am excited about this next stage in Croudace’s long history. Despite the recent political and economic turmoil, the housing market has stabilised, with inflation and interest rates set to subside over the next 12-18 months.</span></p> <p><span>“Underpinning all of that, there is a fundamental shortage of housing in the UK and, thanks to Russell’s leadership, we have in place the land, finances and people to meet the challenges and opportunities this brings. Croudace has established an enviable reputation for the quality of its homes and the service it provides to its customers and these will remain …