Name: Ema Blay
Job title: Head of delivery at Legal & General Affordable Homes (LGAH)
What I do: I’m responsible for ensuring a consistent and standardised approach to the successful delivery of all our affordable homes across England – from the exchange of contracts through to practical completion. This involves a huge variety of tasks including handovers of properties, making sure that internal teams and our property managers are well prepared to receive new homes, and supporting the legal teams with issues related to deeds of covenants or planning matters.
Why I got into the housing industry: My wider family benefited from the stability of social housing, so I’ve seen the direct impact that good housing can have on people’s lives. Having a safe place to call home provides security and the necessary support should your circumstances change. These factors are crucial foundations for people and provide the freedom to grow, thrive and follow their ambitions.
How I did it: I first got into social housing around 18 years ago, working as a repairs coordinator for a housing association in Bolton. I was keen to get a more hands-on experience and when a chance to join a development course came up, I jumped at the opportunity. I spent 12 weeks training across a number of different housing associations in the North West which gave me fantastic exposure to the sector and fuelled my passion for social housing.
My first big break: In 2008, I saw a development trainee role at a housing association in Kent. I was initially nervous to relocate so far from home, but changes in government spending priorities meant that a lot of the investment going toward the North West at the time was coming to an end so I took the plunge and headed down south. Happy to report that I quickly found my feet and spent a great six years there during which I progressed to project manager.
The biggest challenge I have encountered to date: The move from Bolton to Kent in my mid-20s was definitely a challenge. I didn’t know anyone in the area and it was a big risk, but I’m proud of myself for grabbing the opportunity with both hands, and I’ve never looked back!
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: Every scheme that I’ve been involved in has mattered a great deal to me because I deeply believe that every home matters and will have had a positive impact of the lives of residents. From the early days of my career bringing redundant garage sites forward for residential development to a recent high-density scheme with LGAH, which delivered over 200 new affordable homes for rent and shared ownership – I’m proud of them all.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: I’d like the industry to be more receptive, be more transparent and more accountable to customer feedback. LGAH is such a great fit for me because customer satisfaction is a huge deal for us – we take it very seriously at all levels of the business.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: Making a positive difference and adding value to people’s lives will always be my main goal and the housing sector has great potential to be a vehicle for good change. I want to be able to share my knowledge and experience for the benefit of others in the sector.
Who I’d invite, living or dead to a dinner party: My top guest would be Emmeline Pankhurst – she had profound thoughts on life in particular social justice and women’s rights. Next up, the late, great Vivienne Westwood – a true icon in the fashion world and a trail blazer with a rebellious streak. Last but not least – my grandma Rose. She came over from Northern Ireland in the 1950s, built a life and raised a family overcoming difficult circumstances. A nurse in the NHS, she was straight talking yet kind, funny, fiercely protective and incredibly hard working.
What I do in my downtime: As a child I loved to roller-skate, so I’ve recently challenged myself to get back into it. I’m also learning to paddleboard, inspired by my son joining sea cadets which has meant that I’ve been spending a lot of time by the water.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: A fashion designer for the stars – I’ve always been interested in design and textile.
My advice for someone just starting out: Build a strong network and find generous mentors. Get involved, be visible and put yourself out there. Say yes to new opportunities – who knows what adventure lies round the corner.
My motto/mantra: Work hard and be nice to people.
