Hayley Selway

Chief Executive, Two Rivers Housing

1 What do you do for fun?

I have two dogs: a bouncy German short-haired pointer and a yappy little miniature dachshund. I love spending time with them.

2 You have the power to change one thing about the social housing sector: what would it be?

It’d be great to have more capacity in the sector to deliver the types of homes that people need – homes that are warm, safe and affordable, that have the right space and storage and the right modifications for the families living there, that are located in the areas they want to live with the schools, shops, bus links, doctors surgeries, libraries, sports fields and everything else all on their doorstep. Big ask eh!

3 What advice would you give to someone starting out in housing?

Make sure you come in everyday with the right attitude. Ask ‘What can I do today to make someone’s live easier or better?’. Also, don’t chase money. Chase doing the right thing…the money will come. And, you’re the main actor in your own story – make it a good one!

4 Who’s your favourite author, and why?

I’m a lazy reader and prefer books with short chapters. So, Stephen King, James Patterson and latterly Richard Osman.

5 Strangest thing you’ve ever experienced?

My cat Chloe, now sadly passed away, always used the toilet. You read that correctly.

6 What are your three favourite albums?

Led Zeppelin’s IV

U2’s The Joshua Tree

Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours

7 Sat snugly at home or travelling around the world?

Travelling around the world.

8 A world without music or a world without literature?

A world without literature – it’s music every time for me!

9 If you had to work in housing in another country, which would it be, and why?

Greece – for the climate, the people and the food.

10 Favourite food?

Pasta or tapas.

11 Pessimistic, optimistic or unsure about the future?

Incredibly optimistic.

12 You can resurrect anyone from history and talk to them for an hour: who, and why?

Freddie Mercury – a musical genius and a lovely, complicated guy.

13 Favourite film?

Goodfellas.

14 If you didn’t work in housing, what would you do?

I have a real interest in science – particularly life sciences – so maybe something in that field.

15 What makes for a good life?

Laughing until you cry with old friends and seeing my daughter happy.