Case Studies
Michael Rowan
The GEM Programme's personal leadership module directly inspired Michael to apply for his promotion to Team Leader, where he now manages a team of Safer Neighbourhood Specialists.
Originally from Manchester, Michael graduated with a degree in Sociology and moved into housing with a clear goal: a varied, hands-on role where he could make a direct difference to people's lives. He applied for a Neighbourhood Officer position in South Manchester, drawn specifically to the breadth of housing management work and the day-to-day contact with customers.
The GEM Programme has helped me develop both my housing management and professional skills. The CIH Level 4 qualification broadened my knowledge considerably — and the personal leadership module gave me the ability to understand my leadership style and the confidence to go for my current role.
Michael works with internal and external partners to develop strategies around anti-social behaviour, domestic violence, drugs and hate crime. He leads safer neighbourhood initiatives and campaigns, while motivating his team to deliver an effective service across the organisation.
Go for it. Be open and be honest. Remember why you want to work in such a diverse and satisfying sector and think about what skills you can bring. If you embrace every part of the process with your values and behaviours in mind, you can't go wrong.
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