GHA appoints former apprentice to its board

Jody Newark spent 12 months on an apprentice placement with the Guernsey Housing Association under the scheme, which aims to widen the pool of board-ready individuals in the island by mentoring rising stars and supporting future board members, and has now been elected as a full non-executive director.

The GHA board comprises nine professionals who contribute a broad range of industry experience.

Each volunteer member gives up their time to advise the organisation, which works with the aim of providing affordable homes for rent, partial ownership and extra care housing.

During her time with the GHA, Mrs Newark has drawn on skills gained from a background in fund management to advise the GHA on business proposals relating to potential developments.

'I have a keen interest in corporate governance and legislation. This, together with a solid financial services background, I believe has been beneficial to my peers. My experience in operational and business risk allows me to analyse potential issues pragmatically and advise on strategic decisions,' she said.

'I took part in the GTA Board Apprentice initiative to develop the necessary skills needed to run a company at board level, which is very different from being a part of the main day-to-day business activity.

'It has proven to be an invaluable experience and I'm grateful to the GHA for having confidence in the skills and perspective that I can bring to the board.'

Deputy chairman of the GHA board, Chris Hill, said: 'Jody has proven herself to be a crucial member in the team, offering assistance in due diligence and corporate governance. The GHA takes pride in having a number of unpaid volunteers willing to give up their own time.