World of Housing, GEM Programme interview: Jenny Kerr

What is special about being a GEM and how is the GEM Programme different to other learning and development programmes?

The most special part of being a GEM is the vast array of opportunities that the programme has provided me that I'm almost certain we would not have been offered as part of any other graduate schemes. Everything has been meticulously organised and really served a clear purpose, which, I think, has enabled me to get the most out of every opportunity and really helped develop my skillset and knowledge about the sector more widely.

What I find most interesting about the programme is that it is extremely inclusive in who it's aimed towards. I, myself, am a graduate, but I was quite surprised to learn that it was a housing talent programme which has enabled a range of individuals with different skills and experiences to take part. This has helped me personally as I've been able to learn from fellow GEMs who have worked in the sector for many years within different areas and departments.

Why did you want to become involved in the GEM Programme?

I wanted to become involved in the GEM Programme as I studied law at university. I think I quickly realised that it wasn’t the career path I originally saw for myself. I’ve always had an interest in property, generally. However, with my law background, and interest in social justice, I thought becoming involved in the social housing sector, in some capacity, would allow me to combine both my interests.

When I saw the GEM Programme, I was extremely impressed with both the focus on personal development and the wealth of knowledge the programme would provide me with, given my lack of housing background.

How did you find the selection process for your job and place on the GEM Programme? 

The selection process was thorough and extremely straightforward, which made applying easier. I had three interviews and can confidently say that I was fully informed and supported at each stage. Whilst the interview process was split between the GEM Programme and my housing association, the communication between the two ensured I was a good fit for both the GEM Programme.

How is being on the GEM Programme benefitting your personal development and also helping your organisation?

The GEM Programme has helped broaden my horizons and career prospects immensely. I’ve been given the opportunity to meet with a range of professionals I would never have come across in my day-to-day job if it hadn’t been for the programme. It has allowed me to grow my network, and it has helped to develop my interpersonal and teamwork skills, which I know will benefit me in the future, no matter which career path I decide to go down.

I am meeting with other GEMs monthly from all over the UK. This has allowed me to see how other organisations have dealt with specific issues or certain processes and procedures that they’ve got in place that I can then feed back to my organisation. It’s helped generate new ideas and helped us consider how we could do things better and learn from each other moving forward.

What are your aspirations for the future and how do you think your GEM Programme experience will help you realise these?

I have one year left within my current organisation, and I want to get as much experience as possible by spending time in each department. Due to my interest in property, generally, I am currently undertaking a property development course outwith work. The GEM Programme has opened my eyes to jobs in the housing sector that would directly coincide with this interest.

Following the GEM Shack on building communities, I was introduced to professionals working within the development side of things. I am considering jobs in this area that I never really knew existed.

The GEM Programme has sparked a fire within me to make a difference in the industry. Although I’m not sure where I’ll end up, I strongly believe that the skills and life experience the programme has provided me have given me the confidence and motivation to achieve this. I recommend the programme to anyone looking to make their mark in the sector.

World of Housing – GEM Programme

World of Housing is part of SFHA’s Routes to Housing thematic campaign and aims to create a pipeline of talented upcoming professionals to sustain the future of the housing sector in Scotland.

If you would like to find out more about the programme and its benefits, please contact dallan@sfha.co.uk