Shirley is Chief Executive at The Clive Smith Foundation, the first charity in the housing sector dedicated to tackling mental health issues with an aim to eradicate suicide.

The Foundation focuses on the transformation of the culture of the housing and built environment sector, to be open about mental health and to encourage people to recognise where others are struggling.

With over 20 years’ experience working at senior levels across the sector, Shirley held roles within housing, development and construction, gaining valuable insights into partnerships, collaboration and cross-sector working. As a strategic thinker with sound project management skills, she cites positive working relationships as the catalyst for positive change.

Previous roles include Head of Memberships with The Housing Forum, AD roles with Capita and GL Hearn, new business and development management for housing associations and a contractor, strategy, enabling and housing management for local authorities.

Shirley is also a board member for Women in Social Housing Southeast, trustee for SEC Foundation, and parish councillor serving on the planning committee for her local parish.