Leading Cumbrian housebuilder Genesis Homes has created a new role to help it continue to put community at the heart of its business.
Lauren Allison has been appointed as the company’s first head of communities and engagement.
The firm, based in Penrith, said the strategic appointment marked an exciting milestone for it, which is expanding its operations into Lancashire, and underscored the company’s dedication to placing community at the heart of everything it did.
It said the new role will be central to how the business collaborates with residents, partners, and stakeholders to ensure every development becomes an integral part of its surrounding area.
It added: “From the earliest planning stages through to life long after completion, the role will shape and lead Genesis Homes’ community engagement strategy, strengthen the company’s presence, and deliver meaningful projects that leave a lasting positive impact.”
Genesis Homes has created a dedicated community engagement strategy to guide this approach, built around three key pillars:
- Rooted in community – designing and creating welcoming community spaces on developments, and hosting resident events that bring people together and foster genuine connections.
- Inspiring growth – working with schools, colleges, and other education providers close to Genesis developments to inspire the next generation, supporting skills and aspirations.
- Impact in action – supporting local initiatives and delivering meaningful projects that make a tangible difference in the areas where Genesis Homes builds.
Lauren, a born and bred Cumbrian, brings a strong background in marketing, communications and events, and has developed a breadth of experience in the housebuilding industry over the past few years.
Lauren said: “I’m proud to be driving this new role to champion Genesis Homes, build connections, and make a greater impact in the communities where we build.
“With community at the heart of our developments, we’re setting ourselves apart and staying true to what matters most.
“I’m passionate about creating opportunities for people to connect, whether that’s through resident events or the community spaces on our developments, as well as partnering with schools and colleges to inspire the next generation.
“The work we plan to carry out will be meaningful and I’m excited to see us build a positive legacy.”
Nicky Gordon, managing director and founder of Genesis Homes, added: “Our success is built not only on the quality of the homes we create, but on the relationships we nurture with the people and places around them.
“I have always been passionate about addressing the societal need for quality housing that provides comfort, stability, and a genuine sense of belonging.
“For me, it’s never been just about bricks and mortar – it’s about creating communities where people feel safe, supported, and inspired to grow. I want our developments to be places where individuals, couples, and families can truly thrive, and where our elderly residents feel valued and connected.
“It represents an exciting next step in our journey, ensuring we continue to deliver on our promise to make a meaningful and lasting difference.
!As we expand our presence beyond Cumbria and into Lancashire, this role will be key to embedding our values within every community we deliver new homes in. We’re not just building homes; we’re building trust, partnerships, and the foundations for sustainable, thriving communities for generations to come. That is my vision of a true homebuilder.”
