Are you looking to get an insight into working life at Maryhill Housing from those who know it best? Each month we'll be sitting down for a coffee and a chat with a member of staff to find out a bit about them and their role, and we're kicking things off with a short interview with our Performance and Governance Manager, Debbie Watt.
Tell us who you are and a bit about yourself.
Hi, I'm Debbie. I'm the Performance and Governance Manager. I've worked with Maryhill Housing since October 2021, and I came into the post just around the time we came out of lockdown.
I manage the Corporate Support team: Jenna, our Corporate Officer (Health and Safety), and Gavin, our Communications Officer.
Where did you work before coming to Maryhill Housing?
My background is in quality management and health and safety and facilities management, both in the housing sector and in the private sector, with a traffic management company. Previously, I worked for a housing association that provided supported housing for people with mental health and living disabilities.
What was your first job?
My first job after leaving school was with a youth training scheme, working at a solicitor's office in Blantyre. I used to get two buses there from Coalburn every day. I earned £37 a week, and around £15 of that went on my travel costs. It was like an apprenticeship, and I was able to learn on the job – I've gained all my skills through work and have had the opportunity to receive formal training and gain qualifications.
What's your favourite part of your role?
I guess it would be identifying areas where we're not performing so well and being able to feed into making improvements, particularly around landlord health and safety. I also like managing the Board, supporting them and encouraging new people to sign up as members – they play an important part in the decision-making here at Maryhill Housing.
Finally, what's your favourite book, film, and holiday destination?
My favourite book would be anything by John Connolly – from his Charlie Parker detective series. My favourite film of all time is Die Hard, and I love Portugal as my dad used to live there, but I would also really like to visit Thailand.
Please visit the jobs section of our website to view our current vacancies.