Welcome to DINs latest member service as part of our leadership channel as we look to find the next generation of housing CEOs (or help you decide if it is not for you).

Come and join a small select group of members who have ambitions to lead a social landlord business in the future.

Carefully curated in the usual DIN style this will not be your normal leadership experience. We have secured some of the best CEOs and leaders to come and share what it takes to get and then stay as a succesful CEO. Real world stories and insights from CEOs who have been there and done it as well as leaders who have supported them.

What does the forum consist of?

1. A series of 3 discovery webinars
2. A private whatsApp group
3. An end of year in person event

All of which will help you decide if the CEO journey is right for you. We promise an experience that will inspire, inform and challenge with a focus on what really makes a successful CEO.

And it comes with our DIN 'no bullshit' guarantee. Just real honest, human stories and insights around how to lead at the top.

Session 1 - Kicking it off

“Things you wish you knew about being a CEO and didn’t dare to ask?”

Liam Black and Anita Jones provide candid insights from their personal experiences about what to expect and what not to expect when stepping into a CEO role. They’ll share valuable lessons on how to prepare well for what’s ahead—and we hope you dare to ask your burning questions!

About the Speakers

Liam Black

A renowned UK social entrepreneur, impact investor, and author, Liam brings over 30 years of experience leading purpose-driven businesses, including Liverpool’s Furniture Resource Centre and the Jamie Oliver Group. As co-founder of Impact Ventures UK, he’s facilitated investments in businesses like Togetherall and Elvie. Liam also works on leadership development with The Forward Institute and has authored books such as ‘The Social Entrepreneur’s A to Z’ and ‘How To Lead With Purpose’.

Anita Jones

Anita has been CEO of Freebridge Community Housing since 2020, leading a 7,000-home organisation in West Norfolk. Known for her energy, positivity, and customer-focused leadership, Anita has navigated significant challenges, including strike action, while seizing opportunities to revitalise operations and development programmes. With senior roles at Havebury Housing Partnership and Breckland Council, and a Master’s in Housing from the University of Westminster, Anita is committed to driving meaningful change in the sector.

What the Session Will Cover:

· The reality of being a CEO: Insights into the unexpected challenges and rewards of the role.

· Preparing for the transition: Practical advice on getting ready to step into a CEO position.

· Navigating challenges: First-hand experiences of handling difficult situations such as organisational change and external pressures.

· The CEO mindset: What it takes to balance leadership, strategy, and day-to-day responsibilities.

· What they wish they knew: Honest reflections on lessons learned and pitfalls to avoid.

What Attendees Will Get Out Of the Session:

· Candid insights: A realistic understanding of the CEO role, beyond the job description.

· Actionable preparation tips: Guidance on how to equip yourself for the challenges ahead.

· Inspiration from real stories: Learn from the experiences of two accomplished CEOs.

· Confidence to ask questions: A safe space to explore concerns or uncertainties about becoming a CEO.

· New perspectives: Practical and inspiring ideas to help shape your own leadership journey.

Who should attend?

Anyone who is a senior Director in a social housing landlord who has aspirations to be a future CEO (or to see if it is for them) can join the sessions.

Cost

There is no fee for joining this forum or the sessions. It is included as part of your DIN subscription