Public sector framework provider LHC Procurement Group (LHCPG) has strengthened its leadership team by making four senior hires across the business
As Viv Hichens joins the group as its new head of procurement, Richard Hughes takes up the reins as regional director of South West Procurement Alliance (SWPA) and Welsh Procurement Alliance (WPA) – two of the LHCPG group’s regional businesses.
Vimala Jayaraman and Nicola Lewis have been appointed as LHCPG’s new group chief financial officer and head of marketing and communications respectively.
All have been welcomed as part of the organisation’s ongoing commitment to delivering innovative, socially impactful solutions to its clients across the UK.
Viv Hichens 
Viv Hichens brings a vast amount of procurement experience from both private and public sector roles, having worked for Cherwell District Council and the NHS, among others, throughout the last two decades.
His expertise in procurement transformation and strategic partnerships is set to further strengthen LHCPG’s mission.
Working closely with LHCPG’s technical procurement team, head of communities, and social value manager, Viv says he will use the opportunity to make a tangible impact on people’s lives through social value and innovation.
“I believe our focus on social value, sustainability, and innovation can truly make a difference,” he said.
“By working together, we will create frameworks that not only meet the demands of the entire span of the public sector – from local government to the NHS and from government departments such as DESNZ to the MOD – but also enhance community resilience and sustainability.”
Richard Hughes 
Meanwhile, Wales-based Richard Hughes is focusing on leveraging his extensive experience and knowledge of both English and Welsh governments to foster greater collaboration between clients and contractors.
Richard has more than 20 years’ experience in the construction industry, having held management and director-level positions at British Gas, Mitie Property Services, and Mears Group.
He said: “I was drawn to LHCPG for its commitment to social value, emphasising genuine community impact rather than superficial metrics. The organisation’s not-for-profit status and focus on reinvesting surpluses into the communities it serves were particularly appealing.
“Managing two regions for the first time is a new challenge – requiring tailored strategies for each area – but presents an opportunity to bridge the gap between housing providers and policymakers, creating an environment for sharing best practices.”
Vimala Jayaraman 
As LHCPG’s new group chief financial officer, Vimala Jayaraman is tasked with developing, in close conjunction with group CEO Clive Feeney, a robust financial strategy that delivers innovation but minimises risk.
Vimala’s career spans high-profile roles in the public and private sectors across global organisations.
imala is experienced in aligning financial strategies with corporate objectives to drive sustainable growth.
She holds an MBA in Finance Strategies and Strategic Use of Information Systems and has vast experience working for charities and not-for-profit organisations. Vimala also currently serves on the board of directors for The BCI and Age UK York.
Vimala said: “LHCPG’s commitment to social value aligns perfectly with my passion to serve a greater purpose beyond individual interests.
“I am excited to embark on this journey, confident that our combined efforts, dedication, and shared purpose will enable us to make a meaningful difference in the communities we serve.”
Nicola Lewis 
Nicola Lewis joins LHCPG as an experienced strategic marketing and communications professional with a background in the construction, housing and not-for-profit sectors.
Having worked most recently for one of the UK’s leading social housing providers, Nicola is well placed to use her industry knowledge to drive LHCPG’s brand and marketing strategy.
“By focusing on social value, sustainability, and collaboration, we are ensuring our frameworks and services not only address current challenges but also pave the way for long-term positive change,” said Nicola.
“It’s an exciting time to be part of this journey as we strengthen our role as a trusted partner in the sector, and I am keen to talk to any potential strategic partners operating in the retrofit and social value sectors.”
LHCPG, which achieved Gold Standard verification in the autumn, is set to launch several new frameworks this year including its latest energy efficiency framework, Retrofit and Decarbonisation (N9).
Welcoming all four to LHCPG’s leadership team
Group CEO Clive Feeney said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome Nicola, Richard, Vimala and Viv to the team.
We are very lucky to have access to such a vast array of experience that spans across the UK and beyond, and I’m confident they’ll all make invaluable contributions to the future of our organisation.”
