Now in its seventh year, the awards highlight the amazing work of women in housing.

The judges said: “Despite this organisation going through a tough period, they not only came through it but have managed to create a genuinely new and dynamic organisation and have used the experience as an opportunity for change.”

Winning the Employer of the Year award demonstrates Loreburn’s clear strategy of inclusion.

Loreburn employs 120 staff and 66% are women. Equality and diversity are embraced throughout the organisation, starting at the top with the management team which is 75% female.

Loreburn has a female chief executive, director of housing services and director of property and development.

The housing association also has a higher percentage of female in other management roles, 56% female compared to 44% male.

Loreburn was also a finalist in two other of the prestigious Women in Business categories, with Emilia Kopanicka nominated for Finance Professional of the Year and Maureen Farrell nominated for Board Committee Member of the Year.

Lorraine Usher, chief executive at Loreburn Housing Association, said: “I am absolutely delighted to win this award and have our efforts to create a culture of inclusion where women can thrive and succeed be recognised. At Loreburn, the contribution of every member of staff is valued but, on this occasion, we are recognising the contribution of women in our business.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate Maureen and Emilia on being shortlisted as they have both made a significant contribution to our work. This award comes soon after we were awarded triple Investors in People Gold status so being named the prestigious Employer of the year shows how our modern ways of doing business are benefiting all our staff and importantly our customers. We look forward to building on our success.”