Inside the Culture Strategy Driving One of Housing’s Top Performers With Wayne Gales

How do you create a culture of trust and openness that drives results without
compromising on performance or accountability?

In this episode, we’re joined by Wayne Gales, Chief Executive of Weaver Vale
Housing Trust, to unpack how a purpose-led approach can transform both internal
culture and external impact.

Fresh off receiving a G1, V1, C1 rating, Wayne offers a grounded, behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to lead a housing organisation with an agile approach that keeps people at the heart of decision-making.

With over eight years at the helm of Weaver Vale, Wayne shares how cultivating a
culture of transparency, staff empowerment, and a relentless focus on listening have helped build a resilient, values-led organisation that continues to grow and innovate, even during turbulent times.

In this episode, we cover:
● The leadership principles behind Weaver Vale’s G1, V1, C1 rating.
● Why purpose, not process, is the real driver of culture.
● Practical ways to retain talent in today’s competitive job market.
● How the role of a chief executive has changed in the new world of work.
● Why Weaver Vale treats their colleagues the same way as their customers.
● The surprising reason the Chief Exec doesn’t have an office.
● How to strike the right balance of openness with unions.
● One simple strategy for attracting talented people.

Wayne offers his refreshingly candid insights into how listening and transparency
have shaped an award-winning culture. His commitment to purposeful leadership
and community impact makes this an essential episode for anyone leading in
housing today.

LEARN MORE

Weaver Vale Housing Trust - https://www.wvht.co.uk/
Andersen James - https://www.andersenjames.com/

CONNECT
Wayne Gales on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-gales-b6166b51/
James Leighton on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-leighton-65023b11/

LISTEN
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1JHMfNs33BK4UTOgaYt3cB
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/the-hip/id1576686644
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7vH1zt3GSm3_B_-OhDSlRg