Gentoo Group has announced the appointment of four high-flying business leaders to the organisation’s board.
The appointments of Ian Shipley, Jonathan Jowett, Jim Scott and Martin Brookes is intended to help Gentoo achieve its ambition to become one of the best providers of social homes in the country.
Ian Shipley, managing partner and head of data and analytics at Oliver Wyman, has built successful commercial businesses, with headquarters in the North East. He has significant financial and digital knowledge with over two decades of experience advising boards, regulators, and governments.
Shipley said: “I am really looking forward to joining the Gentoo board and helping Gentoo innovate and make a difference for its customers and communities.”
Jonathan Jowett joins after 15 years as company secretary and general counsel at Greggs with a wealth of experience in governance, compliance, risk management, and sustainability.
His leadership across the legal and charitable sectors, including roles as current chair of the trustees of The Great North Air Ambulance Service and previously as senior independent non-executive director at Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust will help Gentoo maintain its highest governance standards and regulatory excellence.
Jowett said: “After working in customer first organisations for almost 40 years, I am really passionate about the services Gentoo provide and I am delighted to be part of an organisation that puts its customers at the heart of everything it does.”
Jim Scott, managing director of Rightmove’s landlord and tenant services business, brings over 25 years of commercial leadership experience, including senior roles at Sage Group, IRIS software, and founding Paramount Consulting.
His track record in business transformation and executive coaching will support Gentoo’s strategic growth and operational excellence, ensuring the organisation continues to deliver value for its customers and communities.
Scott said: “Gentoo is an inspiring organisation, and I really wanted to help shape the future for customers and colleagues. I am ready for this next challenge, and I look forward to meeting colleagues from across the organisation.”
Martin Brookes, chief executive of Vonne, has led organisations across the public, private, and voluntary sectors. He co-founded Pro Bono Economics, helped build New Philanthropy Capital, after roles at the Bank of England and Goldman Sachs. His experience will help Gentoo further embed social value into its decision-making and service delivery.
Brookes said: “As part of building a life in the North East and wanting to make a positive difference in the region, I believe I can bring my experience to the Board and continue to ensure Gentoo continues to be a housing provider that helps its communities and customers thrive.”
Emily Cox MBE, chair of Gentoo Group board, said: “At Gentoo, customer and community is at the heart of everything we do. Welcoming Ian, Jonathan, Jim, and Martin to our Board strengthens our ability to make a real difference for the people and communities we serve. Their skills and expertise will help us continue to invest in safe, secure homes and create opportunities that enable our customers to thrive.”
Louise Bassett, chief executive at Gentoo, added: “We are delighted to welcome Ian, Jonathan, Jim, and Martin to our board. Their diverse expertise and shared commitment to social purpose will help us navigate future challenges and seize new opportunities for the benefit of our customers, colleagues and communities.
“I’m excited to work with our new members to shape Gentoo’s future and continue to deliver on our strategy and customer promise.”
Main image: Emily Cox, Ian Shipley, Jim Scott, and Louise Bassett
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