Hello I’mJulie
My Role: Social Value Manager
Where I work: Keepmoat – who are a top 10 UK partnership homebuilder with a track record of delivering quality new homes across the UK at prices people can afford
What do I do in my role?
As a Social Value Manager, I play a crucial role in ensuring that Keepmoat has a positive impact in the communities in which we work. I work closely with our partners, community organisations and key stakeholders to ensure the local community benefit from the new homes being built.
Here are some of my key responsibilities:
- Developing and Implementing Social Value Strategies: Prior to work starting on site, I create an employment, skills and engagement plan that align with Keepmoat and our partners goals, ensuring it complies with government and industry standards
- Engaging with Stakeholders: This involves working with local communities, schools, charities, and other organisations to maximise social value initiatives
- Manage Employment, Skills and Engagement Plan: Once work starts on site I coordinate and oversee the delivery of the activities in the plan. I focus on creating job opportunities for local people, including apprenticeships, work experience placements, careers activities in schools and colleges and community cohesion activities are few to mention
- Reporting and Compliance: I ensure that Keepmoat delivers its social value targets and provide regular reports on progress to senior management and our partners
- The role can vary significantly depending on the company you work for, but the core focus is always on creating positive social impact and fostering community engagement.
What’s my career journey?
I began my journey by volunteering at a local mums and tots' group, which eventually led to my appointment as chairperson of the local community group. This group organised various community cohesion activities, including:
- Youth clubs
- Community fundays
- Clean-up days
- Mums and tots' group.
My dedication to volunteering caught the attention of my local housing association, which subsequently led to me being offered an interview for a position as a Resident Liaison Officer with Keepmoat. Keepmoat had been awarded a contract to refurbish their homes. I applied for the role and was successfully appointed. Over the past 14 years with Keepmoat, I have progressed to the position of Social Value Manager for the Northwest.
What’s the best thing about my job?
I love that no two days are the same, one day I can be in the office planning or at a meeting and the next day I am with a group of young people giving them a tour of our development. The role offers a unique blend of strategic planning, community engagement, and the satisfaction of making a real difference.
My top skills
- Interpersonal and Communication Skills: Strong ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, including community members, employees, and partners
- Visionary and Strategic Thinking: Capability to develop long-term strategies that align with Keepmoat’s goals and stakeholder needs
- Problem-solving: Social Value Managers need to effectively address and manage the various challenges they face in their role.
Good personal qualities to have
- Passion for Social Impact: A genuine commitment to making a positive difference in society drives my work and motivates me to go above and beyond
- Resilience: The ability to stay positive and persistent, even when faced with setbacks, is important for long-term success
- Empathy: Having a strong ability to understand and share the feelings of others, which is crucial for engaging with diverse communities and stakeholders.
What do I want to do next?
I am currently very happy where I am in my role as I have a good balance of working in the office and out and about delivering the activities I coordinate. I have no plans at present to change anything.
My advice if you want to do what I do
- Gain Relevant Experience: Look for opportunities to work on community projects or volunteer with local community groups like I did. This gave me a good understanding of the makeup of a community and the challenges they face. Practical experience is invaluable
- Pursue Relevant Education: Consider studying subjects like social sciences, sustainability or public policy. There are also specialised courses or certification in social value or sustainability can also be beneficial.
- Develop Key Skills: Focus on building skills such as project management, data analysis, communication, and stakeholder engagement. These are crucial for the role.