Competing perspectives on the governance role of boards of English housing associations and attitudes to board payment

Moore, Bruce (2017). Competing perspectives on the governance role of boards of English housing associations and attitudes to board payment. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This thesis uses Q methodology and an abductive approach to discover competing conceptualisations of how housing associations should be governed and attitudes to board payment.
It identifies five sets of perspectives characterised as:
1. Business Focused and Corporately Responsible
2. Socially Focused and Stakeholder Accountable
3. Regulator Focused and Professionally Responsible
4. Leadership Focused and Governance Rigour
5. Pragmatically Focused and Non-Prescriptive
The results confirm the hybrid nature of housing associations and that their governance is complex, multi-faceted so does not converge on one uniform consensus view. Power and payment emerge as two particular issues of contention, but at a more fundamental level the differences relate to conceptions of the role of the board exists to fulfil.
The characteristics of housing association governance are not only analysed at a sector level, but are also explored on a case basis for two housing associations to demonstrate the potential of Q methodology as a means of board assessment. The thesis also considers the significance that the particular context, conditions and circumstances may have from a personal perspective.
The thesis concludes that increased recognition should be given to exposing and exploring differences of perspective and ensuring there is clarity about purpose and approach.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):