Peabody appoints first head of AI

Peabody has appointed Nathan Nagaiah as its first head of artificial intelligence (AI).

Nagaiah has joined the 109,000-home landlord as it “looks to use technology to improve services for its 220,000 residents”.

He founded and led the UK Centre for AI in the Public Sector initiative at Newham Council, in partnership with the University of East London.

Launched in 2024, the venture aims to identify solutions to issues in areas such as temporary accommodation (TA) and social care using AI and automation.

Peabody’s new recruit also led the development of DOMUS, an AI tool that helps housing officers identify suitable TA more quickly, while keeping final decisions with staff.

Nagaiah will now lead the G15 member’s approach to AI, exploring how it can help speed up repairs, improve customer services, identify problems earlier and free up colleagues’ time to support residents.

He said: “Three years from now, I don’t want residents to say, ‘Peabody has great AI.’ I want them to say, ‘Peabody understands my needs, responds faster and makes my life easier.’

“AI should be working in the background, helping colleagues focus on what matters most: people, homes and communities.

“Success won’t be measured by how much AI we use, but by the difference it makes to residents’ lives. I want Peabody to show what’s possible when housing associations use AI responsibly, with people firmly in control.”

Nagaiah has also contributed to international work on responsible AI, including through the World Economic Forum and is a trustee of the UK Cyber Security Council.