I’m delighted to share that I have taken over the position of Director of Membership at the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA). Having worked with both Build UK and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), I’ve seen first-hand the vital role that trade associations play in shaping industries, strengthening businesses, and giving a collective voice to their members.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that trade bodies matter because they represent businesses of all sizes – from start-ups and family-run SMEs through to large corporates. Smaller firms often face the same regulatory and market challenges as their larger counterparts but with fewer resources to navigate them. Trade associations act as a leveller, ensuring that every voice is heard and that the concerns of SMEs, in particular, are not overlooked in conversations with policymakers, regulators, and industry partners.
Sadly, the recent news of longstanding BESA member HE Simm, a respected family business, going into administration is a stark reminder of the pressures many firms face. It underlines just how important it is for businesses to stand together, share experiences, and support one another through the platform of a strong trade body. At BESA, we are determined to do everything we can to prevent more stories like this, by championing the issues that matter most to members.
For example, we are currently leading the industry’s response to the government’s late payment consultation – tackling one of the most damaging barriers to business resilience and growth. And only recently, we released a podcast with Fiona Graham, Chief Operating Officer at Family Business UK, on Will Inheritance Tax Changes Destroy Family Businesses. These are real-world issues affecting members right now, and BESA is working hard to ensure your concerns are heard loud and clear at the highest levels.
At their best, associations provide three things:
But – and this is key – being part of a trade body is like having a gym membership. You get out what you put in. Simply signing up doesn’t unlock the full value. Members who actively engage, use the services, and contribute to discussions see the greatest benefit. That’s why my priority at BESA will be to help every member, whatever their size, make the most of their membership – whether through technical resources, networking, or having their voice heard in the places that matter.
I’m excited to be leading a fantastic team at BESA at a time when building engineering services are central to some of the biggest challenges our economy faces – from net zero and skills development to improving building safety and performance. Trade bodies like BESA have a unique role to play in leading these conversations, and I look forward to working with our members to ensure they are at the heart of shaping the future.
If you’re already a BESA member, I look forward to connecting with you – and to seeing many of you at this year’s BESA Annual Conference and BESA Industry Awards on 16 October. If you’re considering joining, now is the time to get involved – the industry needs strong voices and collective action more than ever.