Northamptonshire-based housing association makes new board appointments following launch of new EDI campaign

Jean Panagamuwa, Rebekah Paczek and David Mody were welcomed as the newest members of the board at its October meeting.

Greatwell Homes was successful in attracting more than 120 applications for the board positions.

Jean Panagamuwa has more than 20 years’ experience in financial services, particularly in customer-facing businesses, where she has held senior roles across risk, compliance, financial crime and data, with a strong focus on customer outcomes.

Rebekah Paczek has a wealth of experience in corporate communications, policy, consultation and community engagement. She has led on implementing an industry-leading approach to social impact, consultation and engagement.

David Mody is a specialist in risk management within the telecoms industry and has more than 20 years’ experience in the housing sector where he has held numerous board positions.

Findings published by the National Housing Federation’s 2026 EDI Data Tool found that only 21 per cent of board members nationally were from black, Asian or minority ethnic backgrounds.

This is compared to 40 per cent at Greatwell Homes which ensures that a wider range of voices and perspectives help inform decision-making for the benefit of customers and communities across North Northamptonshire.

During National Inclusion Week, which took place between September 14 and 20, 2026, Greatwell Homes launched their new Inclusion in Action campaign which brings together all strands of their equality, diversity and inclusion work.

Gurmeet Virdi, vice-chairman of the board and board EDI Champion, said: "Inclusion is a key value at Greatwell Homes and I was delighted to launch our new EDI campaign.

“Inclusion in Action is about recognising and celebrating difference, listening to diverse voices and creating an environment where everyone feels they belong.

"It brings together the great work already taking place across the organisation, while helping us identify where we can learn, improve and do more. Our commitment to a diverse board is just a small part of this campaign.

"As part of our 20th birthday celebrations throughout 2027, we'll be sharing stories and lived experiences from customers, colleagues, volunteers and community champions.

"We'll also be developing an action plan through our commitment to the National Housing Federation's Inclusive Leadership Challenge. But this is only the beginning.

"We can never assume someone else's lived experience. By listening to diverse voices and learning from different perspectives, we can make better decisions, deliver better services and create a more inclusive organisation.

"I look forward to working with customers, colleagues and partners as we develop Inclusion in Action over the coming year."

Jo Savage, chief executive at Greatwell Homes, said: “As part of our Live Happy strategy, we aim to be an inclusive place to work that promotes diversity.

"For me, it’s important that this starts with our board and leadership team. I was also delighted to have such a high interest in the recruitment process and to see many different experiences and diversities being represented among applicants.

“I want to welcome Jean, Rebekah and David to the board where I’m sure they will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to help support Greatwell Homes in achieving the remainder of our Live Greatwell + corporate plan (2025 - 2028) and into the next phase beyond 2028.”

Board members Helen McGregor, Jo Robinson and David Beale stepped down from the board in October.

In 2025, Greatwell Homes launched its Customer Assurance Committee which sits alongside their board and plays an important role in providing board members with assurance that its customer voice is heard, understood and influences decisions about services to customers.

The committee consists of two members of its board and two Greatwell Homes customers and they are in the process of recruiting another customer committee member.