Paul Bridge, chief executive of social housing at Civitas Investment Management since 2016, is stepping down to become founder and chairperson at The Clive Smith Foundation.

On its website, The Clive Smith Foundation states that it aims to offer understanding and support to people experiencing mental health problems, particularly in the built environment.

Bridge said: “We will end suicide in the housing industry and we have 1,200 members. Join us to end this silent pandemic.

“After six positive years working with Civitas Investment Management and following the successful recommended offer for our listed fund Civitas Social Housing PLC it’s time for me to move on to the next challenge. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Civitas and feel we have made a real difference to many people’s lives across the UK.”

In a statement, Civitas Investment Management said: “After six years with Civitas Investment Management Limited, and following the successful recommended offer for Civitas Social Housing PLC, Paul has decided it’s time to seek out new challenges. We wish Paul the very best for the future and thank him for his contribution to the growth of the company.”

Bridge was a non-executive director at Metropolitian Thames Valley Housing Association from 2018 until 2021 and chair of think tank The Bermondsey Group from 2008 until 2018.