In Conversation: Jacqui Herring

After 30 years in the public sector, Jacqui would be forgiven for trading her office chair for a beach recliner and reflecting on her distinguished career as the waves roll in. 

But – in leadership, and in life – that’s not who Jacqui is.

Instead, she has taken the reins as Nesti’s Managing Director. A pivot inspired by the people and purpose that Nesti Housing encompasses. 

First Impressions

Q. If you had to describe your first few months – in just three words – what would they be, and why?

A. Welcomed; lighter; excited. 

The team at Nesti have been incredibly warm and welcoming and I already feel part of the Nesti family, like I have come home. I feel lighter because this role gives me more freedom to be creative and innovative, and with that comes the excitement about the possibilities and opportunities.   

Q.  Has there been a moment where you thought, “Yes, this is exactly why I took this role”?

A. Yes – there have been several times since I started where I have thought that. I have always been a systems thinker and problem solver and this role has allowed me to consider how the different components of Nesti can work together, along with our partners within PeopleKind Group, and really think outside the box in terms of how we address the current housing challenge. 

People Power

Q.  What’s been your favourite conversation so far – the one that stuck with you after it ended?

A. My first site visit to an SDA property in High Wycombe was inspiring and there were a number of conversations during the visit that have stayed with me.

Speaking with the parents, support coordinator, developers, and our Housing Engagement team, it really got me thinking about how we can support families to provide a safe and supported home for young adults transitioning to independence. As a registered SDA provider and licensed real estate agency we are well placed to connect with relevant stakeholders and work with families to create a community. A community where young people can be supported to live independently and thrive, while also providing families with peace of mind.

Q. What have you learned about the people here that doesn’t show up on an org chart?

A. Without exception, the passion that the Nesti team has shines through. The desire to make a positive difference is genuine, in the support of our tenants and families, and collaborative work with our chosen partners.

Q. What’s one small ritual or habit you’ve already picked up since joining? 

A. Chatting with the team, sharing updates and whereabouts, and the occasional meme on the Nesti Water Cooler.

Fresh Eyes

Q. Looking at the business with fresh eyes, what feels most full of potential right now? 

A. With my previous experience at the Department of Communities, there is real potential to identify opportunities and work with families, developers, and service providers to support people to access the right home for them. We know that great homes, in ideal locations, can create a community and have a life changing impact.

Q. What’s one thing you’ve spotted that will benefit from your experience? 

A. Nesti is a young organisation that has a proud history. With origins that have always put people at the heart of what we do, we provide opportunities for safe and secure homes. It is important for me to continue to build on this strong foundation of people, processes, and housing solutions. My aim is to strengthen and grow the four departments of Nesti, while building on the collaborative partnerships we have with likeminded organisations.

Q. What’s been the biggest learning curve in your first month? 

A. While I have a background in housing, I have had limit exposure to the operations of traditional real estate and Specialist Disability Accommodation. So, that has been a big learning curve for me. Learning the jargon and acronyms is always a challenge in a new job. And as this is my first role with a not-for-profit organisation, I’m still wrapping my head around all the salary packaging benefits.

Looking Ahead

Q. Without giving too much away, what excites you most about what’s ahead?

A. Nesti is in a unique position to provide housing solutions and maintenance services to empower vulnerable people, and to collaborate with others to achieve that. The combination of the Nesti Realty business, Community Housing, Specialist Disability Accommodation, and Maintenance team, provides an exciting value proposition that has the potential to be a game changer. We can respond to the housing crisis and deliver tangible benefits for those that need it most.

Q. What would success look like one year on, not just for the business, but for the people?

A. Success one year on means achieving sustainable growth and a strong and recognisable brand, while fostering a healthy, skilled, and engaged Nesti team. We want to continue uplifting our positive culture – where people feel valued, balanced, and personally fulfilled in their roles.

A Personal Flourish

Q. We noticed that you love a meeting agenda. What’s one thing in your personal calendar that is a non-negotiable?

A. Getting to Pilates or Yoga most days each week. Exercising keeps me strong and focused and helps me maintain a positive mindset. I also make sure I get to the beach most Sunday mornings for a swim.

My daughter graduates from university next year, so we are planning a trip for Christmas in 2027 to celebrate.

Q. Is there a book, podcast, or show you’ve been enjoying lately?

A. I am currently listening to The Diary of a CEO – The 33 Laws of Business and Life by Steven Bartlett. He is very practical and down-to-earth, and much of what he shares is applicable and relevant. 

I’ve also just finished watching ‘The Beast in Me’ on Netflix which was a good, thought-provoking psychological thriller.

Q. If your first month had a soundtrack, what song would be on repeat?

Can I pick two? To represent my first month, it would have to be “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen and Tom Petty’s “Learning to Fly”.