Welcome to WISH Midlands

Regional Manager, Chartered Institute of Housing. 

Rebecca works across London, the South East and Eastern regions for the CIH. After discovering WISH at a North West networking event, she teamed up with fellow board members Katherine Smith and Rose Klemperer to relaunch the Midlands group to invest and lead in the personal development, mentoring and networking for women’s careers – something WISH has been so successful in delivering for other regions.

She said: “I am honoured to introduce myself as chair for WISH Midlands. For me, being able to lead such an inspirational group that promotes women within such a diverse and vibrant sector is extremely exciting. WISH has an excellent reputation within social housing and adheres to my core beliefs in personal development and unlocking your network.

“One thing’s for sure, there are some exciting times ahead and I’m looking forward to seeing the potential and energy of this branch shine through.”         

Marketing officer at Orbit Group

Katherine develops, plans and executes marketing activity for Orbit's portfolio of product and services whilst also working closely with Orbit’s Sales and Marketing teams to devise and implement marketing plans and raise awareness of Orbit’s new build properties and tenures.

She set out to relaunch the group as she believes the social housing sector showcases so many diverse roles that help towards improving people’s lives and which make a difference in communities.

She said: “I was shocked to hear only 22% of the 100 largest housing associations are led by women. The Midlands region has a very strong social housing sector scene and this was the perfect opportunity for myself and my colleagues to start up the branch. The ethos behind our region is very much about encouraging young women to enter the sector as a proactive choice.”

Associate at Anthony Collins Solicitors 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!"

Deputy company secretary at Orbit Group Ltd 

Sarah’s career history includes 17 years of varied legal advisory roles, including 14 years in the housing sector. She oversaw Touchstone Housing Association’s merger to become Midland Heart and now serves as Orbit’s deputy company secretary. Sarah is also a foundation board member of the Romero Catholic Academy in Coventry.

She said: “I joined WISH to develop myself and others in both a personal and professional capacity. I’m excited at the prospect of being able to promote careers in housing, which I feel it is a sector that is undersold.”

Rebecca works in communications and delivers PR, marketing and social media for a wide range of clients, including a number of housing associations and housing consultants in the Midlands.

She said: “I joined the WISH board as although I’ve only worked with the sector for a comparatively short while, it’s been an eye-opening experience that’s sparked a passion in me. The support I’ve received from the women that I’ve met has been incredible, and I want to do my part to pay this forward.”

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!”

Head of Information Governance WM Housing Group Ltd

Karen is, in her own words, a data geek.  Heading up a team which has not only risen to the challenge of GDPR, Karen has worked across her group to promote good data governance and compliance.   

Karen became involved with WISH after meeting a group of work experience students and then being dismayed when the boys headed into ICT, Accounts and Governance roles, whilst the girls went to the front line and admin.  Karen believes passionately that women can play a key part in the future of housing, and is a proud board member and promoter of WISH. 

Service Lead for Young People Services

Emma is the service lead for Spring’s young people’s services, who support 16 and 17 year old care leavers. Emma has worked within the housing field for the last few years, and is passionate about ensuring the voices are heard of those most vulnerable in society. Emma believes that WISH is a fantastic platform for women to enhance their confidence and careers within the housing sector.

Managing director at Shropshire Towns and Rural Housing 

Sue has worked in a number of management and housing management roles in councils and housing associations in London and the Midlands. Prior to her current role, she worked for Shropshire Council as head of landlord services and was instrumental in setting up the ALMO STAR Housing.

Sue said: “I’m passionate about housing and delivering great services. The key to great services is ensuring that we have great staff who are encouraged to make the most of their potential. Women sometimes lack the confidence to do this, and great mentors and role models can make all the difference.

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. 

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.”

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!”

Email: [email protected]