Leigh Johnson will take up the role at Barking Riverside Limited (BRL), the master developer delivering the 20,000-home Barking Riverside scheme on the site of the old 1920s Barking Power Station.
Ms Johnson said: “I’m proud to be joining BRL at this critical and energising moment in its evolution.
“This is a nationally significant project and a career-defining opportunity, not only because of the scale of homes being delivered, but also because of the credibility and commitment of the partners involved.”
Ms Johnson, regional development director at Wates Residential. brings experience from senior roles across public and private housing sectors, including Homes England.
Ed Farnsworth, co-chair of the BRL Board, said: “We are pleased to have appointed Leigh Johnson to the role of managing director.
“Leigh brings with her a blend of contractor, developer and government experience – a mix that reflects the crucial partnership working at the heart of BRL.”
She is expected to begin the role in November 2025, following the departure of Matthew Carpen, who led BRL for 12 years.