MEMBER VOICES
communicate with your team. “I’ve always been on the front line, talking to different trades. I see it every day, the struggles they go through and I like to be engaged with them. It keeps me busy and motivates me to make the industry better because I love this industry. Sometimes I think, ‘What the bloody hell am I doing? But I really do love this industry.” Wilson’s passion for the industry means she is always looking at how to improve it. She believes there are three key areas where positive change would have the biggest impact: ● apprenticeships – the syllabus needs to change so that the practical component is more current and relevant; ● mandatory licensing – too many people do not abide by the rules and laws because they are rogue traders; and ● mental health – improving the wellbeing of construction workers is vital. “I think that the industry needs people like me who are a bit different – I’m not a tradesperson as such, but I’m there asking the questions for the trades and safeguarding the clients. It keeps me trying to do a good job.”
has helped, as they “make the materials as competitively priced as they can”. For his clients, Richards says: “Our quotes are very detailed and the breakdown for us on the materials helps keep track if there’s a sudden change in the market.” Eyes on the future Business owners know firsthand the weight of responsibility that comes with managing a company. When business is slow or times are tough, you always need to be looking to the future. Which is exactly what Richards has done. “We make plans for the business moving forwards in terms of marketing strategies, updating social media and website content – and keep believing the phone will ring with work during a quiet month. “Word of mouth is still such a powerful tool for us and having the modern platforms to back up the evidence all works together,” he says. Being focused on the future
FMB Scotland Director Gordon Nelson and Pam Wilson of Kevin Wilson Master Builders
in abundance. Recalling how Covid lockdowns in Scotland meant it was illegal to work on clients’ sites, Wilson explains that they needed to act decisively. “We started to pivot the business. We decided we’d rebrand, get a bigger workshop, make sash and case windows so we could be in control if there is another lockdown. If we can make things then we have an income.”
requires boldness and resilience – which Wilson and her husband have To weather the storms, Wilson says it is particularly valuable to MOMENTUM
19
Master Builder
www.fmb.org.uk
Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter maker