YOUR FMB AREA BOARD MEMBERS
The FMB has 10 area boards, each made up of 14 members who work to support fellow members. Here, we meet Robin Atherton from Yorkshire and Trent, and Wayne Sandford from London IN YOUR AREA
T he difference in its various governance bodies is one of influence. At least according to Robin Atherton, Director at Mack Construction and Solar, and Area Board President for Yorkshire and Trent. between being a member of the FMB and getting involved “Rather than just paying the annual FMB subscription fee each year, I wanted to have some influence on how the FMB was being run,” Atherton explains. “After all, the FMB is a membership organisation run by builders for builders.” Before taking on the role
greater chance of success at the tender stage.” As with all of the area board members and presidents Master Builder has spoken with, the benefits of participation significantly outweigh the demands. Required to meet just four times a year – and often a split between face-to- face and online gatherings – each meeting lasts about two hours. “A board member would need to be a supportive, active participant offering a viewpoint on various subjects,” Atherton explains. “Area board members need to read the agenda and minutes of the previous meeting prior to attending meetings.” Enjoying the benefits It doesn’t take a lot to be involved in your local area board, but the benefits are plentiful, including networking opportunities, sharing ideas with fellow member businesses, gaining timely insights into industry changes. It’s no wonder Atherton urges fellow members to lend their support. Although relatively new to the London area board, Sandford encourages other members to join their local boards. “If you are passionate about the industry and want to give back and give strategic input for the betterment of the industry then get involved.” Atherton says interested members should speak to their area board representatives or regional director. “Express your interest. You could then attend one or two meetings as a guest or unelected member to see if it’s something you would like to apply for. Whilst there is some commitment, the benefits are far greater.”
of Yorkshire and Trent Area Board
President, Atherton was on the board for the South Yorkshire branch. He decided to represent the branch on a regional level. He has served on the Yorkshire and Trent Area Board since 2016.
Robin Atherton
Power of the people Atherton may have been drawn to the area board to contribute to FMB governance, but what has kept him involved is the people. “Being on the area board has allowed me to meet like-minded builders and business owners with similar aspirations, problems and challenges,” he says. “We share experiences and offer first- hand advice to each other. “Board members tend to hear of any potential legislation changes, material shortages and other matters earlier than normal due to various working groups that feed information into the FMB structure.” Wayne Sandford, Director of Sandford Homes & Developments Ltd in Surrey,
The city of York falls under the FMB’s Yorkshire and Trent Area Board, where Robin Atherton is President
says Atherton. “When I meet with potential customers and I mention I am on my FMB Area Board they are generally reassured that I am a capable builder, which then gives my business a
joined the London Area Board to “give back to the industry”, but the added perks include how much board membership carries “industry kudos”. Clients are also impressed by area board membership,
36 Master Builder
www.fmb.org.uk
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online