In the latest episode of Topline Talks, we were joined by Ed Farnsworth, Executive Group Director, Finance at L&Q, the UK’s largest housing association. This discussion on the Social Housing sector, provided a deep dive into another one of Mackie Myers’ core specialisms, and Ed shared insights and lessons learnt on his journey from Graduate to Executive during his 21-year career at L&Q. He also covered:

The Hidden Housing Sector. Few people realise the size and scale of the UK’s social housing market. Housing Associations are big businesses: with £250bn worth of assets, £120bn of debt and listed bonds, they are akin to a PLC, with the added benefit of having a social purpose.

Advice to Graduates Starting their Careers. It’s important to belong to an organisation that gives you opportunities, but even more importantly, you need to make sure you’re seeking out opportunities within that organisation. Always put your hand up to try different things.

The Challenges Facing the Sector. From building cost inflation, stagnant housing prices and long waiting lists, through to regulatory pressures, decarbonisation, customer experience challenges, and more, there is a lot to navigate. But there’s also room for positivity…

Collaboration, a Long-Term View and a Cross-Party Commitment to Housing – what’s needed to ensure the strength and health of the sector. If you get housing right, jobs, health and the economy all follow.

The Growing Trend of M&A Activity. The sector has seen consolidation that has created efficiencies, but the priority should always be to go into a merger with the right intentions, and to put residents first.

Creating an Honest, Candid Culture. It’s key to create an environment where people can be authentic, be themselves and relate to others. It is absolutely possible to work hard but still have fun!

Managing a Diverse Set of Stakeholders. From investors, to the regulator, to the residents themselves – housing associations have a range of stakeholders they need to keep happy. But if you get it right with the resident, the rest will fall into place.

The Benefits of Non-Exec Roles. Sitting on Boards is not only interesting, but the practice can also help you to see things through a different lens, improving how you work when you’re back on the other side.

New Accounting Standards. The nuances of financial reporting in the social housing sector and the importance of consistency.

Season Three of Topline Talks sees us take a deep dive into our core sector specialisms, including Cleantech, Consumer, Private Equity, Social Housing, Charity, Life Sciences and Higher Education. The podcast still focuses on engaging conversations with senior leaders, offering insights and learnings from their careers, and providing tips and advice on how to succeed as a leader.