The Homes and Communities Agency is likely to announce its new interim chief executive as early as next week, following the standing down of chief executive Sir Bob Kerslake earlier
this month

A number of senior staff are thought to have applied for the job, which has been advertised internally. Frontrunners for the position are thought to include the current London regional director, David Lunts, and director of policy, Trevor Beattie.

A source said that initial interviews had taken place last week. A separate source said the agency hoped to be able to make an announcement by the end of this month, giving a
month-long handover period.

Kerslake is to start his new job as permanent secretary in the communities department on 1 November.