Louise Shillinglaw has recently been appointed as Head of People and Organisational Development to lead both the group-wide human resources function and cultural build.
She brings more than 20 years’ experience within the sector, including time within the manufacturing industry, retail, utilities and education; and more recently running her own consultancy business.
Louise has extensive insight into the establishment of County Durham Housing Group as she was originally appointed as part of the team that transferred the ownership and management of properties from Durham County Council to Dale & Valley Homes, Durham City Homes and East Durham Homes.
From an operational perspective Louise is now working to develop the group’s approach to managing its people resources, by widening the services offered to around 450 employees and embarking upon a cultural development programme.
She said: “The role offered me a fantastic opportunity to build something new that would maximize County Durham Housing Group’s people and their potential – something I couldn’t refuse.
“As a group we believe in ‘Putting people at the heart of everything we do’, and by working with staff I see it as my role to both value the heritage of each individual organisation and bring people together to work towards a common business goal.
“And by involving employees in this journey, we can ensure as a group our tenants receive the best possible housing services.”
Louise is one of six new Heads of Service that have joined County Durham Housing Group in recent months, as the organisation starts its quest to fulfil its ‘We believe in life without barriers’ vision.
For more information on the group visit www.countydurhamhousinggroup.co.uk or email info@cdhg.co.uk