Who we are
Smartz is a young, vibrant and ambitious company armed with a wealth of experience and expertise. We're passionate about performance within the housing sector and we're determined to make a positive impact.
As director Stewart Smart says: "The whole housing market is changing. With change comes a climate of uncertainty. That uncertainty can be turned into a very positive situation, with wonderful opportunities to fill gaps in knowledge, experience and skills.
"It is vital that dedicated, but often over-worked, employees feel valued and able to achieve their personal and professional goals. Smartz can help by devising and implementing strategies to create teams of highly motivated employees who get the recognition they deserve for providing exceptional levels of service to customers."
We know how to get to the root of issues, helping you, your staff and your organisation to grow and flourish.
Meet the team
The Smartz team is led by two directors, both equipped with a broad range of skills developed over many years working within the housing profession.
Stewart Smart:
Stewart has worked in housing since 1988 - as a researcher, adviser, manager and latterly as director of a progressive housing association. He has been responsible for all aspect s of housing operations from housing management and repairs through to supported housing and development. He holds a BA(Hons) in Social Administration, a Masters Degree in Social Sciences (M.Soc.Sc) and is a qualified housing professional and member of the Chartered Institute of Housing (ACIH). He is external examiner for the professional housing course at Solent University in Southampton and sits on the board of a local housing association.
Stewart's experience of the affordable housing field includes a period as a homelessness advisor, providing front-line services and advice to some of the most diverse and vulnerable clients in society. He also worked on an Estates Action Project providing housing management services to some 1,200 residents. This equipped him with the skills and knowledge to deliver quality customer care, deal with local politicians, resolve a variety of day to day problems such as anti-social behaviour and maintenance and arrears issues, and generally improve the lives of those people living on the estate.
As Director of Operations at Winchester Housing Group he concentrated on developing its services, policies, procedures and staff. He ensured that his principles and approach were adopted throughout the group, namely respecting those to whom services were provided, and taking into account organisational priorities and constraints such as budgets and resources.
He gained skills in diplomacy, negotiation, report writing, and dealing with boards, as well as developing external and internal networks and partnerships.
Margaret Belcher:
Margaret has worked in housing since 1977, taking three years out to complete her B.A(Hons) in Social Administration. Currently director of Hermitage Housing Association, she has held positions at director level since 1993. Her extensive knowledge of the housing profession has gained her an excellent reputation within the sector. Margaret provides an invaluable advice and support service for Smartz.