Members of the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) Scotland have elected Diane Drummond, managing director of B-DACS Air Conditioning, to be their chair for 2023/24.
She has been a director of B-DACS, which installs, maintains, and repairs commercial ventilation and air conditioning systems throughout Scotland, since it was founded 20 years ago by her husband Brian.
She previously worked in the retail sector for 15 years before switching to banking where she rose through the ranks to a senior management role at Lloyds. She left in 2012 to go full-time at B-DACS where she was able to apply her extensive business experience overseeing the day-to-day operations and financial management of the Glasgow-based firm.
“The bank gave me the leadership and people management skills which have shaped the way we run B-DACS today,” she said. “I was very fortunate to have some fabulous mentors who guided me.
“I have a real passion for learning and every day is different. I love the flexibility the role brings, and I like the fact we can make changes and implement ideas that benefit both employees and customers.”
Drummond admits that many people would be wary of working with their husband or partner but says they “just make it work”.
Skill sets
“Brian and I have completely different skill sets. We don’t always agree but we trust each other to do what is right for the business, the people, and our customers.”
Their daughter Linzi is also a director and has worked at B-DACS for 12 years running the Operations Department.
BESA’s membership director Rebecca Fox welcomed Drummond’s election and said she was looking forward to working with her to further strengthen the Association’s presence in Scotland.
“We are very proud to be the only built environment trade association that represents every part of the UK,” said Fox. “We have a particularly strong heritage in Scotland and Diane is the latest in a long line of motivated and experienced business people who have been prepared to take on the role for the benefit of our members and the wider industry.”
In 2021, Drummond was chosen to take part in a programme called ‘Unlocking Ambition’ run by Scottish Enterprise. The programme included coaching on business growth, leadership, and strategy.
“I graduated from the programme in 2022 with a wealth of knowledge and more confidence in myself which has helped to shape and grow B-DACS,” she said.
She is also vice chair of the NSPCC Ladies Lunch committee, which raises £50,000 a year to support vulnerable children and ensure they can access the Childline help service.