New to the job is a feature where we meet people from across the sector who have taken on a new role. If you want to take part email ben.black@bronafon.org.uk
What is your name?
Liz Jones
Where do you work and what do you do?
Linc Cymru– Head of Asset Management
Why did you choose a career in housing?
I found myself at 16 leaving school with no qualifications, living in a bedsit with no support, I struggled to pay my rent and had to move quite a few times. I chose a career in housing because it gives me the chance to make it possible for others to have a home where they feel safe, can create memories and journey through life.
What is the most important thing you have you learned since starting your career in housing?
Never judge people, we all have different experiences and some have more opportunities than others. I have learned that everyone who works in housing really cares and are passionate about helping people .
What advice would you give someone applying for a job in housing?
If you care about helping people and want to make a difference then your half way there, you’ll gain knowledge and experiences of different situations throughout your years.
Where would you be working, if not in housing?
I always wanted to be an American truck driver after watching Smokey and the Bandit when I was young but as I didn’t go down that route I’d say I would have liked to have been a doctor.
What motivates you?
Doing the right thing, I’m passionate about helping people. I always make the effort to speak to those who are homeless and living on the streets, because most people walk past without even speaking. We’re all people, some need more help than others.
What do you do to relax?
I started running around four years ago and love it. It doesn’t sound relaxing but getting outdoors is the best way to relax.
Proudest moment?
Apart from having my 3 beautiful daughters , it would be when I qualified as a building surveyor. I did the qualification part time from the age of 30 , it took me 7 years as I left school with no qualifications so had to start from scratch.
Most embarrassing moment?
I’ve had a few … I once stopped and insisted to a lady who was on a bus stop that I would give her a lift as I thought she worked in a sheltered scheme for the organisation where I worked at the time, I did eventually realise that it wasn’t the same woman … I apologised, a lot.
What was the last film you watched and how did you rate it?
Hidden Figures – it’s an amazing true story of three inspirational African-American women who worked for NASA in the 1950s and 60s, it’s about perseverance, determination and it shows that anything is possible. 10/10