This week I caught up with your FMB Scotland President Pam Wilson who reflects on feedback from fellow members and looks forward to a busy autumn schedule.
'I’ve always taken the view that anyone on FMB’s Scotland board is very much part of team FMB' says Pam. 'Of course, we are busy running building companies, so that comes first before our duties as volunteers for the FMB.'
Now there are many examples I can give where Scotland Board members have gone above and beyond to support FMB’s work. A recent one was on 28 August when Pam co-hosted the FMB stand at CITB’s skills and training conference in Perth. I was ill, so couldn’t attend. One phone call to Pam and she stepped up to ensure we had a presence at this event.
The Scotland Board
What are Pam’s thoughts on the Scotland board, which is comprised of 14 FMB members: all elected by Scotland members? 'Well, we are lucky to save such knowledgeable and passionate people on our Scotland Board and this year I’ve grown more confident when chairing the meetings. I think I’ve got a handle on everyone’s character now!' On 3 September, the Scotland board met online, with members from across the country sharing feedback on:
- Workloads and trading conditions
- Labour and skills challenges
- Building Materials: availability and pricing
- FMB’s services, including inspections
The board has also just been strengthened with Ryan Gilluley of Gilluley Cost Management Ltd being co-opted. Co-opted members are voted onto the board by existing members, to address the need of a specific skillset. 'I am sure Ryan’s experience as a cost and claims consultant in construction will not only help the Scotland board but also the wider membership in Scotland' said Pam.
What’s happening next?
On 17 September I will be attending the Scottish Construction Summit in Glasgow. There is a 15% discount for members with at least one member from the Scotland Board attending. “If the day job allows, I will be there too, as Glasgow is only a short drive from our office in Stirling. I am so looking forward to the Master Builder Awards finals in Manchester on 26 September. Whilst our company isn’t one of the finalists, I’ll be cheering on fellow members from Scotland.” Said Pam.
On 4 and 5 October the FMB will have a stand at the Homebuilding and Renovating Show at the Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh. Supported by members (including Pam) we will promote the FMB brand and inform clients why they should seek out an FMB member for their building project.
If you would like to help us at the stand or at the advice centre, please get in touch.
Finally, we are planning to organise at least one social event for members in Scotland later this autumn: most likely in Glasgow. I will be in touch with more details in due course.
Authors
Gordon Nelson
Director, Federation of Master Builders Scotland
