I get to be a Board Member as Chief Executive and this feels important as it means that I am fully part of the decision making process and the Board are fully able to hold me to account.    I really enjoy working as part of such a collaborative team.    The PHA Board is full of incredibly talented people who all bring broad experience, enthusiasm and curiosity to the role.    Our Board meetings are full of discussion, enquiry, exploration and good humour.    We aim to create a space where it is easy for members to ask questions – even uncomfortable questions – with everyone confident that this comes from a good place – one of wanting the organisation to deliver on its mission and goals.   There is a high degree of trust and that speeds up the way in which we can learn and improve.

I obviously bring a strong knowledge of what is happening in the business as well as too many years to mention of experience in social housing in a variety of different settings.   Along with that, I bring my enthusiasm for our mission, a collaborative spirit and – I hope – an openness to learning and improving.   I am passionate about trying to make sure that we truly add value as a smaller provider.  I know that our overhead is significant – and it has to demonstrate a non monetary value that speaks to things that residents care about and that enhances our local community.

Not sure how interesting it is, but I love a really, really, long walk.  I’ve done several 200+ mile walks over the last few years – mainly to raise money for Meningitis Now, a charity that is close to my heart and of which I am also a business ambassador.   I only walk on my own – listening to audio books and frequently having conversations with myself out loud.    Aside from that, I have a grumpy looking cat (Harry) and a loopy looking dog (Maisie) and a very wonderful partner who likes to climb tall mountains!