Meet the Board: David Blower – having an impact on our communities

Meet the Board: David Blower – having an impact on our communities

Last month, we launched our Meet the Board campaign to help our colleagues and customers get to know our Board members.

We will be sharing articles from Board members each month so you can find out about their roles, experiences, who they are, what they do and why it matters.

This month we interviewed David Blower, Chair of our Audit and Risk Committee and a member of the Board. Here’s what David had to say:

What is your background and how you became a board member?
I’ve been involved in housing for more than 30 years and always felt strongly about the impact it has on people’s lives. After stepping back from my executive career, I still wanted to stay connected to the sector – so when the opportunity to join the Citizen Board came up, I jumped at it.

I’ve now been with Citizen for 18 months, and I’m really proud to be part of such a values-led organisation.

What does your role on the board involve?
I’m here to make sure we’re delivering on our strategy – building new homes, investing in communities and making sure customer service is the best it can be. A big part of my role is holding our senior leaders to account and supporting them to do the best job possible.

And what’s the most rewarding part of that?
Knowing that the work we do around the Board table has a real impact. Whether that’s making decisions about regeneration in existing communities or investing in new homes, everything we do is ultimately about improving people’s lives. That’s a huge responsibility, but also what makes the role so meaningful.

What do you think Citizen does well?
We’ve become really focused on keeping customers safe in their homes – and that’s the foundation everything else is built on. When you feel safe and secure, you can build a life, support your family, and thrive.

Tell us a bit more about you – what do you enjoy outside of work?
I swim every day, I’m active in my local community, and I enjoy a challenge – including a 14,000ft parachute jump! I’m semi retired, but I still take on some non-executive roles because I love contributing to causes that matter.

What’s one thing you’re really proud of?
I know it doesn’t sound glamorous, but I’m proud of our financial planning. When we manage our finances well, we can invest in regeneration, better services, and new homes. That planning is what allows us to deliver real impact for our customers.

And finally – what’s your advice to someone thinking about getting involved?
Go for it. It’s hugely rewarding and gives you a different perspective on how organisations work. If you care about making a difference, being part of a board or committee is one way to do it.

Watch David’s interview below to hear more about his role and why it matters.

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