Gosport: CEO shortlisted for Woman of the Year award

A Hampshire businesswoman has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award for her work in the housing industry.

Anne Taylor, chief executive of the Thorngate Churcher Trust in Gosport, has been shortlisted for the Woman of the Year award (under 10,000 homes) in this year’s Women in Housing Awards which recognise and celebrate the achievements of outstanding women working in housing.

Now in their sixth year, the awards highlight the achievements of the many women who make a major contribution in this sector. The Woman of the Year category is new for 2018 and is aimed at recognising a truly inspirational ambassador for women in housing.

Taylor’s submission covers her work at Thorngate Churcher Trust and her wider role as founding chairman of the Almshouse Charities Network, work with the Almshouse Consortium and her commitment to mentor, support and inspire women in the industry.

At Thorngate Churcher Trust, Taylor oversees an organisation with a turnover in excess of £2 million, with 80 employees, more than 120 warden-supported sheltered flats and a 44-bed care home.

She has championed the education and development of staff and by the end of 2018 she will have spearheaded eight building projects including the recent opening of Lucas Court – ten purpose built one bedroom flats.

“I’m truly thrilled to be shortlisted for this prestigious award,” said Taylor. “The Trust celebrates its 150^th anniversary this year so to feature on the shortlist in such a milestone year is an added bonus.”

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Manchester in October.