I graduated with a postgraduate diploma in Housing Policy and Management from Northumbria University in 1997. As part of my studies, I spent 12 months with a national housing association working as Housing Officer before requesting a further placement of 6 months with the regional development team. I enjoyed the time I spent as Development Assistant and gained a far greater understanding of the role the team played in providing social housing. I found the role incredibly rewarding as each scheme had its unique problems and when the buildings were completed, tenants were generally very happy. At the end of the placement, I decided that I would like my career progression to be in housing development rather than housing management and took a position with Three Rivers where I have remained since 1999. I have been able to expand my knowledge and experience in a variety of projects for many different client groups. The Housing Corporation funds most of our projects. However, we have been engaged by Primary Care Trusts, Social Services and various care providers to provide specialist accommodation for specific clients’ needs more recently. My position involves financially appraising new schemes, acquiring sites, liasing with consultants and local authorities to obtain planning permission, and negotiating building contracts with selected partners. I am also involved in site visits during construction and meeting new customers to offer them choices in their new properties. I am responsible for cash planning and claiming grants from the various funders. During the past 12 months, I have also taken an active part in devising new policies and procedures and in selecting our preferred contractors and consultants for partnering. I am also a representative for IIP and have participated in a number of business improvement groups. Working with Three Rivers has allowed me to further develop my career in Development and Regeneration as the team I work with are very supportive and offer encouragement when new ventures are posed. We have recently conducted a full review of the built product and this year for the first time a number of schemes will focus on sustainability, energy efficiency and life time homes standards rather than specifically on cost. This is a very exciting change for the business and I am delighted to be working on such innovative projects. Registered Social Landlords’ development sections have changed rapidly over the past few years and we now have a much more commercial focus. This allows us to get involved in different types of new business in a more competitive manner. Since joining here, I have embraced the many opportunities offered to me which have included acting up to assist the Development Manager and participating in Management training courses. This experience has been invaluable. In 2005, I was appointed Development and Regeneration Manager (North). I am sure that with the support and training offered I will continue to feel rewarded by the job that I do.