Tenants’ Union leadership – from strength to strength

The Tenants’ Union is pleased to announce Leo Patterson Ross as our new Chief Executive Officer. Leo has worked in housing and community development since 2006 – including as a Tenant Advocate, Advocacy & Research Officer, and most recently as the Tenants’ Union's Senior Policy Officer. Throughout this time Leo has fought passionately for renters’ rights – with justice around land and housing as his driving goal.

Across the sector, Leo is well known and respected for his in-depth knowledge of the housing system and his ability to clearly articulate the challenges faced by renters. He understands that those of us who rent our homes need a strong voice when speaking with those who own and control the housing system.

Leo was born and works on unceded Gadigal land. He now lives in an apartment on Terramerragal land with this partner, six-year-old daughter and two cats.

Leo takes over from Julie Foreman, who served the Tenants’ Union for twelve years. Julie has been a strong advocate for tenants, and a caring and compassionate manager of her team. She has been willing to fight the hard fights, taking issues directly to the top decision-makers in NSW, but still just as comfortable meeting with individual tenants, no matter how vulnerable. Her strategic thinking and thoughtful management has been key to the growth and success of the Tenants' Union. She will be missed at the Tenants' Union and we wish her all the best for her future.