Navigating the Sector in 2025: Pressure, Progress, and People

If you thought the housing sector might finally catch a breath in 2025, think again, because breathless seems to be the new normal. With seismic political and economic shifts rewriting the rulebook once again, organisations across the sector find themselves urged to (wait for it!) “pivot,” “adapt,” and “collaborate” at scale. We know… these phrases have practically become a daily mantra. But their relevance has never been more critical.

The government’s long-term rent settlement plan, providing some welcome stability as it heads toward expiry in April 2026, has nevertheless introduced wider ripple effects. Mounting pressures on tenants’ finances, coupled with restrictions on rent increases, have squeezed housing providers into a vice of rising costs, limited resources, and sky-high expectations. Add persistent inflation, national insurance hikes, and ballooning operational and construction expenses, and it’s a recipe for a pressure-cooker that’s fit to blow.

Throw into the mix stubbornly high energy prices, elevated borrowing rates, and growing urgency around building safety and decarbonisation, and you’d be forgiven for wondering how the sector keeps its head above water.

Building Resilience: Stories that Lead the Way

This edition, guest contributor Lisa Blamire, Director at LB Property & Compliance solutions, shares her compelling career journey, offering powerful reflections on leading effectively through systemic and seismic change. Her message highlights how resilience begins with culture and flourishes through inclusive, behaviour-led leadership.

Diversity, equity and inclusion remain a top priority, both for organisations and for candidates exploring new housing roles. There’s also growing awareness in 2025 about neurodiversity in the workplace, and how understanding it can unlock extraordinary talent.

Housing Consultant and Coach Liz Oliver joins us this issue to share her personal journey of being diagnosed with ADHD in her forties. Her insight shines a spotlight on the nuanced experiences of neurodiverse professionals, whilst offering actionable strategies for supporting every kind of brain in the workplace.

Recruitment in 2025: Avoiding the Pitfalls

Culture sits at the heart of every organisation. But without a strong, collaborative team, service delivery and customer experience can falter. That’s why your recruitment strategy matters more than ever.

Greenacre Director and Executive Search specialist Barry Forsythe shares five pitfalls to avoid when hiring in 2025, along with clear, effective strategies to help your organisation stay ahead, and attract top talent across every segment of the housing sector.

If you're seeking your next executive, board, technical, operational or service delivery role, we cover every corner of the housing sector. Whether you're ready to leap or just looking to land, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you move forward, boldly, as you navigate the next two quarters.

Alma Sheren, Editor