Executive Director of Finance & Technology
Advance is pleased to welcome Kayleigh Sterland-Smith as our new Executive Director of Finance and Technology, strengthening our leadership team as we continue to focus on long term sustainability, strong governance and delivering the best possible services for the people we support.
Kayleigh brings more than 17 years’ experience across social housing, local government and the charity sector. She joined Advance in September 2025 from Rooftop Housing Group, where she was Head of Finance. A qualified CIPFA accountant with a Level 5 CIH qualification, Kayleigh combines public finance expertise with a strong understanding of housing and support services.
Kayleigh said: “I’ve joined Advance at a time where the organisation has lots to celebrate, but also a lot more that it wants to do for current and future customers. What matters most to me is making sure Advance remains a strong and trusted provider as it moves forward. I want colleagues, customers and stakeholders to feel confident that we are a safe pair of hands, while also having the ambition to look ahead to develop and plan for the long term.”
In her role, Kayleigh leads our finance, business assurance and technology functions. Her focus is on financial viability, value for money and strengthening systems and data so that decision making is clear, transparent and effective. Bringing these areas together reflects Advance’s commitment to using technology and insight to support safe, quality services.
Kayleigh added: “There has been a lot of change across the sector. My priority is to ensure we provide stability while also helping Advance move forward. We want to be here not just now, but long term, and that means planning carefully, using data well and making sure we deliver real value.”
Julie Layton, Chief Executive at Advance, said: “Kayleigh has brought a calm and credible presence to Advance. Her experience across housing and public finance, together with her understanding of supported services, gives real confidence as we look to the future. She understands the importance of stability alongside improvement, and she will play a key role in ensuring Advance remains financially strong and sustainable for many more years.”
Before joining Rooftop, Kayleigh worked in local government and within the charity sector, experience that shaped her understanding of governance and publicly funded services. She brings a practical approach to efficiency and assurance, alongside a clear appreciation of the importance of trust and accountability.
Based in Warwickshire, Kayleigh is also a mum and enjoys music and quizzes outside of work.