MEMBER NEWS
CENTRAL
Building momentum
FMB Central held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 3 June, marking the halfway point of what has been a productive year for the region. “Our members have been raising the profile of quality builders at events such as the Homebuilding & Renovating Show and Grand Designs Live, showing consumers what good building looks like,” said Central Director Nicola de Sousa. De Sousa noted growth in the number and quality of Master Builder Awards entries. Business planning workshops have also been successful, bringing practical value to existing members and attracting new ones.
(l-r) Nicola de Sousa, Ian Cook, Iain Kirtley, Gordon Nelson, Gavin McGuire, Simone McAllister, Chris Carr and Ifan Glyn at an FMB event at Lane7
CENTRAL
Welcome to James Overton
His focus on training support, fair regulation and helping members adapt to industry changes aligns perfectly with Central’s regional priorities. “With members like James stepping up to support the FMB, we’re confident about the year ahead and continuing to support our growing membership across the region,” said Central Director Nicola de Sousa.
James Overton has joined the Central Area Board after recent elections. With more than 17 years in the industry creating luxury bespoke homes, James brings valuable experience in sustainability and client engagement. “As my business grows, I am less operationally involved and looking to engage with the wider construction community,” James explained. His priorities include championing construction professionals, offering practical tools and guidance, and staying connected to what’s happening on site.
CENTRAL
Battle of the Builders: Midlands Games Night Do you think your team has what it takes? Join us at Lane7, Bullring Birmingham on Thursday 13 November for Battle of the Builders – an evening of games, good food and great company. Try your hand at pool, bowling, the brand-new Playground Party and karaoke, all while supporting the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity. Tickets include games, a two- course meal and bragging rights: ● £55 per person / £220 for teams of four. ● Starts at 7pm. Spaces are limited so scan the QR code to book your spot and show the Midlands what you’re made of.
CONTACT ● Nicola de Sousa , Central Director Email: nicoladesousa@fmb.org.uk | Call: 07769 687 239
explained. “It is as much about ensuring we have seats at the right tables to speak out on behalf of our members.” In late spring, Gordon met with the Convener of the Economy and Fair Work Committee, Colin Smyth MSP, to voice concerns about the funding and quality of construction training in Scotland. Additionally, Gordon completed a consultation on the Community Wealth Building Bill for Scotland. “This bill has all the makings to benefit many members as it aims to ensure that economic wealth is generated, circulated and retained in local communities through improved procurement practices,” Gordon said. To find out more about the what, why, how and when of lobbying for members in Scotland, contact Gordon using the details at the bottom of the next page.
SCOTLAND
If you’re a relatively new member then you may not know much about the work the FMB does on lobbying and influencing policymakers. Politicians and other stakeholders frequently seek out the FMB as the voice of local construction firms. “Often the positive impact of our lobbying work takes a while to bear fruit,” Scotland Director Gordon Nelson Talking straight to policymakers
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