From 2 January 2026, Kiren Sampla takes over as Employee Director (non-statutory) from Hema Nar, who stepped down from the role after completing her three-year term at the end of 2025.
Kiren will now lead the Employee Representative Team as it continues to champion colleague voice throughout the business, ensuring Mears remains a great place to work.
The Employee Director position is a testament to Mears’ commitment to fostering a more inclusive and representative leadership structure. It is one of only a handful of listed businesses to have an employee representative on the Board and is the only business to do so in the housing sector.
The Employee Representative Team plays a significant part in shaping the way the Group is run, ensuring the Board receives full, open and honest insights into how its people are feeling and where improvements are needed.
Kiren has been with Mears since 2015, working within the HR function, and brings a wealth of experience and insight to the role.
Kiren comments on her appointment:
I’m honoured to take on the role of Employee Director at Mears Group. This position is a vital link between our colleagues and the Board, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. I look forward to building on the fantastic progress made by Hema and continuing to strengthen engagement across the business. Together, we can drive initiatives that make a real difference for our people and the communities we operate in.
Jim Clarke, Chairman, said “We’d like to say a huge thank you to Hema for her outstanding contribution and the tremendous progress achieved during her tenure.
“The Employee Director position was first introduced in 2018, and its value has grown year on year. Mears was one of the first listed companies to adopt this innovative approach to employee engagement, and the impact has been transformative.
“The Employee Director together with the Employee Representative team has become a vital communication channel, ensuring the Board receives open and honest feedback from our workforce and has been instrumental in driving several successful initiatives.
“We are delighted to welcome Kiren to the Board following a rigorous internal selection process. We look forward to continuing to strengthen employee engagement across the Group.”
