general manager of the Bermuda Housing Corporation Board.

The post has been embroiled in controversy following the bizarre departure of his predecessors.

Mr. Cowen replaces American Mr. Tom Wall -- who announced this summer he was resigning for personal reasons after just six months in the job. Rumours he had been sacked were later stamped on by BHC chairman Mr. Ward Young.

And last year Mr. John Gardner was sent packing from the Island after skinny dipping at Chaplin Bay, Warwick. The 51-year-old Scotsman pleaded guilty in Magistrates' Court to indecent exposure and was given a year's conditional discharge.

Mr. Cowen, who moves into his post from October 1, is the brother of the boss of Pink Beach Cottage Colony, Mr. W.A. (Toppy) Cowen.

He is currently vice president of resort and residential development for the Pan Jamaican Investment Trust in Jamaica.

Educated at Port Royal School, Warwick Academy and the Bermuda Commercial School, he has had an extensive career in real estate in the United States.

His various positions have included managerial responsibilities, and development and marketing of real estate.

In his new role, he will report to the board of directors, and help implement policy.

He will also direct the day to day operations of the corporation, and act as Permanent Secretary of the Housing Minister the Hon. Quinton Edness.

Mr. Young said: "In keeping with our policy of Bermudianisation we are particularly pleased to have a Bermudian assume the responsibility of general manager.

"Mr. Cowen's comprehensive experience in real estate will make him a valuable addition to the housing corporation.'' Mr. Young thanked Mr. Wall for his tenure and "dedicated'' service.

Mr. Edwin Cowen.