To many of you it will come as no surprise that once my tenure as deputy chairman of BIFM comes to an end next summer, I have decided not to stand for election as chairman.
It is not an easy announcement to make because I have thoroughly enjoyed working with BIFM – both as deputy chair and as chair of WiFM. But I feel it is important that someone else has the same chance I have had to take BIFM and our profession forward.
It has been inspiring to be part of the drive to professionalise facilities management and work to develop the profile of the sector so that Government and decision makers in business properly understand the value FM brings to the economy. However, the most rewarding aspect of my roles within BIFM and also WiFM has been meeting the individuals that make FM such a great profession.
FM really does make a difference. Gyles Brandreth reminded everyone of that at the BIFM Awards. But it is the people working inside the FM industry, often the unsung heroes that work directly with end users and occupiers of facilities that are the heart of successful support services. It is no secret that working with people is something that I love and being so involved with BIFM over the past few years has given me even more opportunity than normal to indulge in my passion for mixing with some great personalities.
Whilst I am stepping down in June when my term ends officially that will not mean stepping away from BIFM. I will be fully involved up to the summer and I intend to remain an active BIFM member and supporting voice from outside of the board room.
So, what next after June 2014? Well, Kentish and Co has real momentum right now; I am leading a great team, working with amazing people and the company is enabling real, long term change to take place in many of the organisations we are privileged to influence.
The role of BIFM deputy chair is demanding, but very rewarding too – indeed I am looking forward to the next six months or so and seeing the fruition of a number of projects and helping BIFM to achieve its goals. However, it is time to move on and focus on Kentish and Co and I want to help someone else play their part inside BIFM and share the opportunities I have enjoyed in driving change within BIFM and professionalising facilities management.
Thank you to everyone for their support – let’s carry on the good work and make a difference!