A LEADING property developer has entered into a partnership with an industry group that champions women in the sector.

Genesis Homes has committed to a year-long sponsorship of the Women in Property Cumbria and Lancashire branch.

The group aims to create opportunities, expand knowledge and inspire change for women working in the property and construction industry.

Nicky Gordon, the chief executive of Genesis Homes, said: “I am a huge believer that the more diversity a business can have in its workforce, the better a business it will be.

“There has been some real progress with female representation in the property and construction sector but we still have work to do.

“I didn't hesitate when I was approached with a request to sponsor the Cumbria and Lancashire branch of Women in Property.

“I know and have worked with some of the founding committee members, who have done a brilliant job to get the branch up and running since 2019, and to achieve affiliated branch status in 2022.

“I really like the approach that Women In Property brings. Yes of course it's about empowerment and opportunity for women, but done in a professional, calm, inclusive and collaborative way.”

The Cumbria satellite of Women in Property was formed in 2019 following a launch in Carlisle with keynote speaker Pat Graham, then chief executive officer of Copeland Borough Council.

READ MORE: Genesis Homes plan for 90 homes west of Carlisle city centre

Since its launch, the branch committee - which represents a wide range of employers in the area including Capita Real Estate & Infrastructure, Wardell Armstrong, Baines Wilson LLP and Burnetts Solicitors - has worked tirelessly to drive and support inclusion, diversity and wellbeing across the built environment industries in the region.

Catherine Cross, a senior solicitor at Brodies and one of the founder members of the Cumbria and Lancashire branch, said: “We are delighted that Genesis Homes has chosen to sponsor Women in Property Lancashire and Cumbria satellite.

“Their support and endorsement is hugely important to us and demonstrates their commitment to our ethos of seeking an inclusive and equitable society. We are incredibly grateful to Genesis Homes and look forward to the year ahead with them.”