Lieutenant Colonel (Retd) Joe Petty is the Chief Executive Officer of the Church of England Soldiers’, Sailors’ and Airmen’s Clubs (CESSAC) and CESSA Housing Association (CESSA HA) — two charitable organisations providing welfare, housing, and community support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families across the UK, Cyprus, and the Falkland Islands.
Joe began his military career as a soldier in the Royal Engineers in 1987, transferring to the Staff and Personnel Support (SPS) Branch of the Adjutant General’s Corps in 1993. Over a 37-year career in the Army, he rose through the ranks to Lieutenant Colonel, holding a range of leadership, welfare, personnel, and financial-management appointments. Through the breadth of his service, he gained extensive experience in leadership, governance, and the management of people and resources. In addition to his current trusteeship with the Council of Voluntary Welfare Work (CVWW), Joe is a former Trustee of the Army Widows’ Association, reflecting his enduring commitment to the welfare of the Armed Forces community.
At CESSAC and CESSA HA, Joe leads a team of around 80 staff, delivering housing and support to Service Veterans and welfare and amenity services to serving Armed Forces communities. He works closely with the Board of Trustees and Directors to strengthen governance, ensure sound financial stewardship, and drive the ongoing development of both the charity and the housing association. His focus is on advancing long-term strategies that sustain and expand the organisations’ contribution to the Defence community, while safeguarding the continued provision of safe, affordable, and supportive homes for those who have served.
Based in the Portsmouth area, Joe enjoys Irish rugby, motorcycling, and travel.