A Devonshires lawyer has been honoured with a lifetime achievement award for his contribution to the social housing sector.
Andrew Cowan, Partner and Head of Social Housing at the firm, was presented with the award at the National Housing Federation’s annual HANA Awards becoming the first lawyer to win the coveted title.
Now in their sixth year, the HANA Awards were launched by the National Housing Federation to celebrate excellence in housing association finance.
Andrew’s long and successful career has seen him advise the sector on a vast range of areas, including finance, governance, regulation, mergers, joint ventures and housing strategies. His expertise has helped Devonshires build an industry-leading social housing practice, which has achieved a top tier ranking in both the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners directories.
The judges noted that Andrew ‘has made a huge contribution to the sector in two key areas’, including helping to rescue a significant number of housing associations that have got into financial difficulty and negotiating new loan agreements.
He was also praised for the support he has provided to the National Housing Federation on issues ranging from structural challenges affecting the whole sector through to the legal implications of anticipated change.
Speaking about his award, Andrew said: “I’m really delighted to be awarded the HANA Lifetime Achievement Award, which reflects the huge contribution a lawyer can make to the social housing sector. This accolade means a lot to me personally and I am overwhelmed by all the lovely feedback I have received from clients and friends.
“Devonshires’ reputation in the social housing sector is the result of a real team effort, so the award is also recognition of the great work of everyone in our practice and our shared values.
“It may be called a “lifetime” award, but I still have some way to go and look forward to continuing to advise and help this important sector.”
