With over 2200 housing associations managing 1.45m homes based in the UK, the market comprises organisations that still have links with their Council (Arms Length Management Organisations) and organisations that are profit-making businesses (Registered Social Landlord). Both represent an enormous opportunity for career progression within an industry that is evolving on a daily basis, given that local authorities are actively encouraged to transfer their housing stock (Large Scale Voluntary Stock Transfers).
More than 150,000 people are employed in Housing within the UK, with most of these people working for either ALMO'S or RSL'S. Most technical skill sets will be suitable, however candidates with an understanding of Housing Management Systems such as Northgate and Orchard are extremely sought after in the current market place. Potential roles include: Systems Manager, Networks Manager, MI Analyst and Business Report Writer.
Hays Information Technology’s Housing Practice has firm relationships with many of the leading Housing Associations in the UK including Great Places, Peabody Trust, Orbit Housing and Home Group. As well as technical skills being paramount, ‘softer skills’ are also expected such as the ability to work to your own initiative and under pressure, the ability to be flexible and adaptable within a variety of different situations and an interest in developing new skills.
There is an increasing demand for candidates with a private sector background as the sector is more commercially aware than the wider public sector, often managing complex loans and overdrafts from banks and building societies and income from rents.
To discuss your possibilities with a specialist consultant or for more information please contact your local Hays Information Technology office