Welcome to WISH Midlands

Senior Associate at Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP

Rose is a housing corporate governance solicitor who often works with housing associations and other community based organisations. Rose believes housing is one of the most important issues affecting communities across the country and the housing sector helps the most vulnerable in our society. While training to become a solicitor, she attended several networking events and found WISH to be one of the most valuable thanks to its relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

She said: “WISH encourages women to choose a career in the affordable housing and construction sectors and addresses career progression for women already in those sectors – all round good stuff!"

Lynn is a Director of the WISH CIC and a Board Member of WISH (Midlands) - she has over 20 years experience of working at Executive Director level within the social housing sector. within both the Local Authority and Housing Association sectors.  Lynn is also Non-Executive Director on an ALMO and a HA.  Lynn has a passion for tenant and employee engagement and advocates that the success of an organisation comes from its people.  Lynn is also a  qualified coach, holding a Post Graduate Certificate in Coaching Psychology.  Lynn runs her own company, Libra Coaching and Consultancy.

Rebecca is the Head of Customer Experience at Wolverhampton Homes, in a role that is responsible for all things customer experience including consumer standards and complaints. Rebecca also sits on the board of Phoenix Community Housing partnership, having long had a strong passion for resident leadership and involvement. Having previously worked at Head of Membership at the Chartered Institute of Housing, Rebecca brings experience in managing membership organisations. She is also one of the founding members and former chair of the WISH Midlands region, reforming it alongside current co-chair Rose Klemperer.         

Shola is the Member Experience Manager at the Chartered Institute of Housing. She has over 10 years’ experience working in a membership services,  high-profile event management, systems developments, implementation and improving member value.

Based in Coventry, Shola joined the housing sector in 2015 on the back of great experiences from media, retail, customer service and IT sectors. Shola currently sits on the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion group in her organisation and she is passionate about making a difference in the housing sector and beyond.

“I joined the WISH West Midlands Board because I am passionate about empowering women to succeed in every aspect of their lives. It is a great opportunity to network and further develop my ambitions. I would love to use my presence as a board member as a point of encouragement; you are capable, able and you can have it all”

Sophie is the Communications Specialist for Wolverhampton Homes, an Arm's Length Management Organisation that manages most of the Council homes in Wolverhampton. She’s the perfect fit for WISH as she’s passionate about supporting and championing women in social housing, and loves to chat and meet new people. She believes that making a difference is the foundation of success, and that’s why she founded the Age and Gender staff forum at Wolverhampton Homes, to highlight the strength of women of all ages and to break down workplace boundaries. With WISH, she seeks to develop and grasp all new opportunities, and on joining the Board she said:

“I’m delighted to be a part of a team who align perfectly with my values, to support and champion women of all ages. Having a strong support network of such inspirational women is so important, and I can’t wait to work with new and existing members within the region. Looking forward to seeing you at our next event!”

Director of Culture, Assurance and Performance at Housing And Care 21

Annabel is the Director of Culture, Assurance and Performance at housing and Care 21 and has worked in the not for profit environment for over 20 years. Annabel’s career has focussed on providing support and direction to organisations in order to help them achieve their potential. Prior to being appointed to her current role in November 2017, Annabel was the Head of Internal Audit and Risk, ensuring sound internal control, good governance and regulatory compliance.   Annabel’s passion for Housing and Care 21, commitment to delivering to the highest standards, her team values, and strategic ambitions led her to being appointed to the Executive Team. 

On joining WISH Annabel said “I am passionate about ensuring women succeed in their chosen careers and have the support and encouragement to achieve their potential which they may not find within their current environment. Being an ambassador for Women in Social Housing enables me to play a part in inspiring others and also further develop my own network and potential.”

Janine has worked in anti-social behaviour for 13 years, managing community safety teams for councils and housing providers, and more recently holding the Managing Director role at a  national, profit for purpose organisation, which aims to develop and share best practice in tackling ASB.

Janine has won a number of awards for her work and has supported various Home Office departments and campaigns. She sits on several national policy forums and is often interviewed by the BBC on the topic.

Janine now provides support directly to her clients. She also delivers public speaking workshops and 121 support for people struggling with imposter syndrome type issues and low confidence.

She said: “I truly believe in the power of people supporting each other, for both personal and professional development. Women are so often fighting battles against their own lack of confidence and self-doubt and we need others around us to realise we’re normal and not let it hold us back!”

https://www.wishgb.co.uk/news/blog/when-looking-back-is-simply-the-right-thing-to-do

Community Housing Officer – Accord Housing

Kat started her Housing career in Customer Services for Citizen Housing and is now working as a Community Housing Officer for Accord Housing working directly with residents to assist with antisocial behaviour, tenancy issues and rent support. She is passionate about tenancy sustainment and supporting vulnerable residents.

After hearing about WISH whilst attending social networking events, she was keen to get involved and join a supporting and inspiring network of women. “I am thrilled to join the WISH Midlands team and be part of a network that encourages women’s involvement and development in the Housing Sector. I look forward to widening my current network and meeting other like minded women.”

Evonne is Chief Executive of IndigoBlu Consultancy Ltd, a housing consultancy working within the social housing and voluntary sector. With a career spanning over 26 years in the housing sector Evonne is passionate about making a difference, equality and diversity.

 “I’m very proud to have joined the Board of WISH West Midlands” commented Evonne on her appointment. 

Elaine leads on marketing and communications at Aspire Housing and its group businesses including apprenticeship and training provider, PM Training, community-based charity, Realise charity and shared ownership provider, Cerris Homes.

Based near to Aspire’s HQ in Newcastle-under-lyme, Elaine joined the housing sector in 2017 on the back of many years in IT and retail. On joining WISH Midlands Elaine said, “I’m delighted to be joining the WISH Midlands team, to help support women working in social housing. WISH offers something unique to women who want to reach beyond their current network and explore new opportunities in housing.

“I look forward to working with existing and new members in the Midlands region, where we have so much to showcase!”