Former politician and Scottish Government minister Jim Mather has appointed as chair-elect at trade body Homes for Scotland (HFS).

Mr Mather (pictured) will assume the three year part-time position on 15 May 2015 but will begin working with the organisation from March.

HFS chief executive Philip Hogg said: “With our chairs all previously coming internally from our Board on a 12 month tenure, this is a strategic appointment intended to offer continuity and a fresh perspective as we look to move housing up the agendas of our politicians and ensure that we bring extra focus to the challenges our members face.

“Jim’s experience will prove invaluable in this regard, particularly in the crucial run-up to both the UK and Scottish parliamentary elections.”

Jim Mather said: “Given the wide-range of economic and societal benefits that are delivered by home building, it is hard to believe that Scotland has such a chronic undersupply of housing or to accept that current production levels are at their lowest level since 1947.

“All the more reason why we need to see concerted effort to tackle the tough challenges the industry still faces, particularly in relation to support for home buyers, effective land supply, skill shortages and in addressing the specific issues hampering smaller developments.

“The task of increasing the number of new homes built and thus ensuring that many more Scots have access to the range of quality housing options they deserve is huge. However, with the goodwill and shared goals of all the people and public and private organisations who would also legitimately benefit from a growing stock of quality homes, I am convinced it can be achieved.

“And I look forward to having the chance to play my full part in that process.”