What is your background?
I started as a trainee Housing Officer with a Local Authority, after completing my degree course. I went on to focus on development,
both new build and refurbishment (covering both urban and rural areas). Since 2015 I have been the CEO of a Midlands based Housing Association. All in all, I have been working in affordable housing for over 35 years.

When did you join the Opendoor Homes Board?
I joined the Opendoor Homes Board as Chair in November 2018. They were particularly looking for someone with development skills.

What is the role of the Opendoor Homes Board and who’s on it?
The role of the Opendoor Homes Board is to set strategic direction with the executive team, to monitor performance and to ensure the business is being run effectively. Risk management, particularly in challenging times, is a key focus for the Board. The Board also acts as an ambassador and champion for all that Opendoor Homes do.

The Opendoor Homes Board is currently made up of 6 members and all have been recruited for their specific skills which are needed for
a housing association like Opendoor Homes. Those skills include customer services, accounting and finance and development. We have a maximum period for which we can serve. We are keen to see an Opendoor Homes resident on the Board at some point in the future.

Why did you join?
I joined because of my development background, and I thought that Opendoor Homes was in an interesting and exciting time in its evolution. I have enjoyed being Chair very much and have been blessed with a very capable and collaborative Board.

Why are you so passionate about Social Housing at Opendoor Homes, what gives you the greatest satisfaction?
I love to see the new schemes we have developed, both new build and refurbishment. I like that we work in partnership with the London Borough of Barnet to support them in providing good quality, well managed affordable homes for those in housing need. We genuinely help to improve peoples’ lives.

What’s your vision for Opendoor Homes for the next five years?
I’d like us to continue to develop new homes (working with the London Borough of Barnet to overcome any hurdles in our way – just like we do now) and, most importantly, to ensure that we are providing the best customer care to our residents. Learning from any poor performance and continually striving to be better, is also vital.