We're delighted to announce we have appointed two new board members.
Coming from the further education and finance sectors, Ellen Thinnesen and Hannah Pollard have a wealth of experience and leadership.
Ellen Thinnesen is currently Chief Executive at Sunderland College and Education Partnership North East and has 23 years experience in the further education sector, 10 years in hospital, health and social care sectors and currently chairs the NELEP Skills Advisory Panel. Hannah Pollard is Head of Accounting and Reporting for EDF Renewables UK and has more than 12 years' experience in finance. She began her early career with Deloitte in Newcastle working across the public, private and charity sector before joining the housing sector working for the UK’s largest listed landlord, Grainger plc.
Commenting on her appointment, Ellen said: “Both housing and education have a deep social purpose and there is great synergy between Gentoo and the work of the further education sector. As part of a values focussed governance function, I am looking forward to supporting Gentoo in the delivery of its ambitious vision and strategic goals for the people and communities of Sunderland".
Hannah added: “The fact Gentoo is committed to Sunderland and focuses on both the people and place aiming to positively impact the whole community is unique and commendable. I believe that Gentoo can make a difference and help to improve tenants’ homes and lives whilst also tackling environmental impact. I’m excited to see how the Group can achieve net zero targets coupled with financial and digital transformation.”
Gentoo Group Chair, Emily Cox MBE said: “I am delighted to strengthen the Gentoo Board by welcoming Ellen and Hannah. They both bring along a vast amount of experience which will be extremely valuable in making the best decisions for our tenants.
“They have already proved valuable to the board since taking up their positions, and I look forward to working with them and the rest of the board to drive further positive change, making sure Gentoo stays true to its social purpose and delivers for tenants in Sunderland.”
Gentoo provides more than 60,000 people in Sunderland with a place they can call home. A values-led organisation with a clear social purpose, Gentoo believe that everyone has the right to live in a good quality home that they can afford.
Every year Gentoo invest millions of pounds to keep existing homes safe, secure and compliant. They also play their part in helping to deal with the UK housing crisis by building hundreds of new, modern homes for rent in Sunderland.
