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One to watch – Didi Massaya, communications officer, Network Homes
In a new series of Q&As with tomorrow’s leaders, this month’s one to watch is Didi Massaya at Network Homes. He was suggested to Inside Housing by his colleague Alistair Warburton at the 20,000-home association
Tell us about your job.
My role includes delivering a range of communications activities to build positive relationships with Network Homes’ internal and resident stakeholders, working with all teams across the business.
My duties range from writing and editing content across digital communications channels including the website and intranet, to monitoring and updating social media accounts.
I also have the responsibility of project-managing internal communication campaigns, ensuring staff are fully informed of corporate initiatives and actively supporting a business culture change.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
My dream growing up was to become a professional footballer! I’m a big Manchester United fan and I’ve always loved both watching and playing football.
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Tell us about how you first came to work in housing.
I moved into housing after working in sales for an estate agent, and it provided a much-needed change from a high-pressure environment driven by output/performance. I wanted to start a career in marketing and gain more experience.
After many rejected job applications and spending months trawling through job sites, I came across the marketing and communications assistant role at Network Homes. Securing the role was a big step as a young graduate.
What’s your proudest work moment so far?
Being promoted to communications officer at Network Homes as it was the next step in my career progression, and it’s given me the confidence to kick on. Last year I even completed a professional qualification in digital marketing.
And what has been your hardest moment?
The aftermath of the Grenfell fire was the toughest period of time I’ve experienced, due to the tragic loss of the life and the impact it had across the sector.
The shocking events serve as a powerful symbol of the need for a conversation about how we as a society think about and value social housing.
Who has been the most important person in your career so far – and why?
My current line manager at Network Homes, Rebecca Burton, who’s supported me from the very beginning and helped shape me into a polished marketing and communications professional. She’s got a wealth of experience in housing and I’ve been able to learn a range of skills and principles I’ll hold on to for the rest of my career.
If you could change one thing about the sector, what would it be?
I’d change the stigma around social housing. This ranges from the media’s portrayal of social housing, the stigma attached to not owning your own home, assumptions that residents are unemployed and receive benefits, and social issues such as gangs and drug use near estates. As a country we have an obsession with homeownership, and there needs to be a greater focus on providing affordable and better quality social housing that’s accessible to everyone.
Do you know an outstanding professional who deserves to be featured? Email jess.mccabe@insidehousing.co.uk with your suggestions
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