🚀 Last Thursday, I had the privilege of joining an inspiring panel at the National Housing Federation’s Board Excellence Conference, representing Saffron Housing Trust Limited. Sitting alongside Keryn J., Lara Sonola, and Roli Barker in our session, “All on Board – Changing the Status Quo of Boards,” this was a moment to pause and recognise the work still to be done, but also to appreciate the progress being made. We delved into some fundamental questions: ✅ How can diverse perspectives lead to better board decisions? ✅ What practical steps can we take to enhance board effectiveness? ✅ How do we ensure governance structures are built to serve communities well? 💡 A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to the session, and a particular mention to: 👏 Rebecca Murphy for organising such a seamless and impactful event. 👏 Kate Henderson for her leadership in driving these conversations forward. 👏 Mark Easton, BBC Homes Editor, for hosting the event. 👏 Alison Inman OBE CIHCM for her recommendation. The conversation doesn’t stop here—it's about improving resident experience, strengthening governance, and delivering better housing outcomes. I'm pleased to part of a great team that's dedicated to making this happen. Jayne Sharma James Francis Iain Innes Julia Prichard CIHCM Malcolm O'Brien Kim Newman Alison Inman OBE CIHCM Jason Margetts, MSc (Dist.), FCIOB, MRICS Mike Jolly Rob Lankey Tallia L. Thomas (Tom) Fadden
Well done Ash - I know you’ll make a difference.
It was great to have you on the panel and it was no surprise that the session was packed. We will definitely be continuing the conversation #NHFBoards
So pleased it went well Ash, sorry I wasn’t able to be there.
That sounds like a fantastic and important discussion! Great to see such a strong focus on diverse perspectives too.
Leading Specialist and SME Lending Expert, Lender Entrepreneur and experienced NED. Experience : GB Bank CCO, Shawbrook, Nacfb CEO, Aldermore founder.
3w"Fantastic to see such an important conversation taking centre stage at the Board Excellence Conference, Ash! It’s crucial that we continue challenging the status quo to ensure our boards truly reflect the diverse communities we serve. Your panel raised some key questions that all of us in governance should be asking—because better board decisions mean better outcomes for residents. Proud to be working alongside you and the team at Saffron Housing to drive this forward!