I was reminded recently of a quote from Charles Darwin, the British scientist who transformed the way we think about the natural world with his theory of evolution.
Darwin said: ‘It is not the strongest of the species that survives, or the most intelligent, but rather the one most adaptable to change.’ This made me think about the future direction of the FMB and how we can ensure that we meet the needs of building companies in today’s challenging economic climate. Clearly more of the same isn’t enough. The FMB, like any other business, has to adapt and change if it wants to stay ahead of the game. This year will, I hope, be that year of change within the FMB.
FMB’S FIRST CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Starting with the appointment of the FMB’s first Chief Executive this position will set the tone for the forward direction of the Federation. The first task of the Chief Executive will be to appoint the new Senior Management Team and outline the new vision for the FMB. This will involve a repositioning of the FMB in the market to transform it into a professional trade association. This is an ambitious aim but with increased competition from on-line providers such as Rated People, increasing demands from consumers for accredited tradespeople, and the cross party political will to transform the UK into a low carbon economy, the FMB has to think seriously where we want to position ourselves in the new market place.
COMPETENT PERSON SCHEME
Our work on our application to Government to become a Competent Person Scheme operator to allow scheme members to self-certify part of their work is the start of this process. The call for new applications will go out in April with the first new schemes being launched in July.
REVIEWING FMB STRUCTURE
It not just the need for accreditation that needs to be achieved - much more needs to be done to get the FMB on the road to recovery. With a seventy year history it is right that we review our current governance structure because the way we live and work now is quite different from that in the 1940s. Local branches offer that link between members and the FMB but we need to find new ways to reinvigorate them. Social activities are often the glue that binds the FMB together but we must become more business focused.
A review of all our services and how we deliver them is required to make sure that members get what they need to make their businesses operate efficiently and profitability. One area that we’re considering is how best we provide technical services and whether there is a need to beef up what we currently provide. So, if you have ideas about what you want from the FMB now is the time to let us know. Email: brianberry@fmb.org.uk.
BUILDING ON SOLID FOUNDATIONS
Whilst looking towards the future is very much on our minds we shouldn’t forget that the FMB is already delivering some great results. For example, our media profile is second to none. The FMB has a higher share of voice than all our competitors added together and better still - the FMB has maintained this enviable position for the last four years. If we can match this level of success in all that we seek to do the FMB will be without question the premier organisation in the building industry!
