The Tenancy Deposit Service has created the new post of chief operating officer, with the first postholder charged with “leading our digital innovation team, bringing a fresh perspective on how we can improve our services.”

Kate Smith has become the COO to focus on member support and digital innovation and will work alongside chief executive Steve Harriott who has led the company for over seven years.

Smith was previously at Southern Housing Group where she was corporate services director, responsible for company secretariat and legal services, IT, HR and communications.

“Her skills will be of upmost importance as we continue to expand our business. She will be involved in overseeing customer service teams and leading our digital innovation team, bringing a fresh perspective on how we can improve our services. Developing and improving our online offering is a key target for us” says Harriott.

TDS is run in partnership with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the Association of Residential Letting Agents, the National Association of Estate Agents and the Residential Landlords Association.