Gurmeet Virdi
I have over 30 years’ experience in senior positions in housing having worked in both the public and private sectors. Now choosing to “give something back” I am currently in a couple of NED roles and in Supported Housing for a charitable organisation where my role is in service development, innovating and trialling new tools and ways of working. I am skilled in building and sustaining successful partnerships that add value to people’s lives, helping them to belong, contribute and thrive in their communities. I have successfully bid for and won substantial funding for supporting young people. I am a change catalyst helping organisations grow, improve services, and meet their customer needs. I am a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Housing and been active on their regional committees for probably 20 of the 40 years in Housing.
I have been married for 39 years with two grown-up children. I love (a little too much) trying different food and drink, and for that reason I go to the gym every day. I like to read self-development books and go on holidays abroad.
Horton is a niche Housing Provider helping the most disadvantaged people. I align with the values of being supportive, respectful and bold. Joining the Board helped me get a perspective on care and support, and work with people who shared my vision of helping people live the best life they can. I have had similar life experiences, and I am now lucky enough to share my knowledge of the housing business with Board members to grow Horton Housing.
I am a calm and measured Board member with many years of experience on boards with different Housing Providers. I know the housing business, having worked at both operational and strategic levels. I know what “customer centric” looks like and value the impact that good delivery has on people’s lives. Having worked in Council Housing and laterally Supported Housing with the YMCA has provided me with the insight and passion to work with organisations such as Horton Housing.
Horton attracts very skilled and able people who willingly give their time and skills to help others. On a personal level I benefit in terms of learning, additional training, experiencing a range of views and the rewards of improving lives. At a professional level it keeps the brain working to mitigate for the risks and challenges facing housing.
Gurmeet is Chair of the Horton Housing Association Management Board and the Chair of the Group Audit and Risk Committee.