Master Builder Magazine: June-July 2024

MEMBER NEWS

SCOTLAND

Talking straight to politicians The Scottish Government and policymakers have made more of an effort to reach out to the FMB recently. Or perhaps, the FMB has become more effective at lobbying! Nevertheless, voices of local building firms must be heard on a range of issues including skills, apprenticeships, building standards,

Members participate in the Esteem Masterclass

SCOTLAND Members’ breakfast and networking

other, proving that taking time away from the business and the tools results in valuable member-to- member conversations. This led to Scotland President, Alastair Raitt, setting up a breakfast networking session in FMB’s Edinburgh office on 9 May. It’s free to members, informal and offers a chance to make connections with like-minded people. Based on feedback from this new initiative, FMB Scotland plans to run these events in other locations this year. If you’d like to help host, please contact Gordon Nelson on the details below.

In Scotland this spring, FMB Scotland ran two free half-day interactive business masterclasses – in Edinburgh and Glasgow – delivered by FMB associate member Esteem Training. Attendees benefitted from: uncovering solutions to the growing pains in their business; insights into their own and others’ strengths and weaknesses; and motivating team players and learning how to develop them so business owners can take a step back from being so hands-on.

planning, housing and procurement. A key role of the FMB is voicing to

policymakers issues that matter to members. At times this involves meetings, or completing consultations. In the spring Scotland Director Gordon Nelson:

Completed the consultation on the Heat in Buildings Bill

Most who attended hadn’t met before but interacted with each

Met with Pilar Rodriguez from Home Energy Scotland

SCOTLAND

SCOTLAND

Scotland Director, Gordon Nelson, offered his thanks to those who got in touch about joining the Scotland board, with 13 members applying. The results will be revealed at the Scotland AGM and summer reception for members on 6 June in Glasgow. The event is free to attend and features Glasgow is set for a summer reception and AGM

Fancy a day of golf? Scotland board members Robert Wilson and Colin McInnes are organising a Golf Day at Hayston Golf Club, Kirkintilloch. The date is still to be confirmed but likely in late August. If you are interested, please get in touch with Gordon Nelson using the details below.

Nelson also gives thanks to Mark MacDonald of O’Mac Construction on the Isle of Lewis, and Peter Tait of DITT Construction in Shetland for informing Minister for Small Business, Innovation, Tourism and Trade, Richard Lochhead, about the challenges of building homes for Island communities. For more about why the FMB lobbies Scottish policymakers, get in touch with Gordon Nelson using the details below.

Business Coach Rebecca Bonnington and Finance Director Craig Rattray as guest speakers. Please book your place by scanning the QR code.

CONTACT Gordon Nelson, FMB Scotland Director

Email: gordonnelson@fmb.org.uk | Call: 07769 687 232 Simone McAllister , Membership Engagement Executive Email: simonemcallister@fmb.org.uk | Call: 02894 460 416

Gordon Nelson at a recent meeting in Scottish Parliament

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Master Builder

www.fmb.org.uk

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