fbe press release - Past President Message
Following on from the recent press release I would like to add; I’ve been so pleased to have been involved in Faculty of Building fbe, As a member joining the Cambrian Branch and later to be a part of a great team on the branch committee over a number of years. Friendships develop when you come together as a team and that’s how it was in Cambria. Most if those on committee over those times are now retired and sadly a number have past away. The memories remain though, of some great personalities and really good times. I followed Malcolm Howard and Tom Holbrow as Director for Wales and then elected in the role of both National Chairman and latterly President. It has been a lifetime honour; I’ve been privileged.
This organisation has made a great contribution to the careers of so many. It is recognised as an organisation of members across all professional disciplines. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time in the various roles I’ve held nationally and value the friends I’ve made, amongst them David Hutt, whom I have known for a good number of years and I’m absolutely confident that he will be an excellent President for the fbe.
I might just add that whilst I had been at the helm, the people, fellow Directors members and staff at the fbe did a great job, the energy and drive they bring to the organisation is inspiring. David Jones became National Chair on my standing down after five years. No one new then what was to unfold and he has been an exceptional Chair leading us through unprecedented times. He’s done an amazing job. He has been ably assisted, as was I in the role, by fellow directors and in particular, John Southworth who’s skills are matched by his strength of character. He offered much sound advice and good governance throughout and continues to do so.
My own branch was Cambrian, as I have said but I’ve had a working life that covered the region of the Great Western branch as well and equally there I had made many friends and enjoyed thoroughly good times at the very well attended events. Great Western, like Cambria were really good at organising amazing events. fbe had an important place in my professional life which presented opportunity to meet so many fellow professionals, develop relationships, enhancing a later career in business development.
Many of the branches across the country have had at some time to make changes over the years. What has been consistent however is there have been people willing to take on the various roles delivering opportunity to the membership. My only advice would be to get involved, if you're not already.