Saint Spotlight - Your Organisation

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The National Federation of Builders (NFB) was founded in 1880 and represents builders, contractors and house builders across England and Wales. As one of the UK’s longest standing trade bodies, it was created to represent the building profession and to promote conditions its members need to thrive and contribute to the economic success of the UK.

Its members range from the sole trader to large, multi-million pound construction companies, with turnover ranging from below £500,000 to over £1.1 billion. The federation provides expert advice, training, representation and business services for members so that they can comply with industry standards, excel in delivery, and grow successful businesses.

I am commercial director so responsible for the operational aspect of all of the support that we provide our members, I am also the lead point of contact for our peer support networking groups as well as our initiatives like the women in construction roadmap that we launched last year.

We are member led. Our work is directly supporting our members and the fantastic work that they do. What better role can you have than helping others to be brilliant?

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Tell us about your first day at your organisation.

My first day was really fun, I got to meet the team, learn more about the work we are doing and I was super excited to be back in the Construction Industry. Our offices are in the heart of Knutsford so it was great to be able to get out to Tatton Park on my lunch too. It ticked a lot of boxes for me.

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Saint Spotlight - About You

How did you get into the construction industry?

I have been in and around construction for a large proportion of my career, mainly delivering health and safety as well as occupational health related services. I have been fortunate to work in a large variety of industries but the industry is definitely one of my favourites.

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What has the industry taught you?

the value of culture and team work as well as time management.

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Did you have a mentor? What did you learn?

I haven’t had a mentor from the construction industry but have had one from outside of the sector. I think one of the most powerful lessons I learned was the ability and confidence to say no and not take on too much.

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What three things would you tell your younger self?

That’s a great question, I would say, its ok to say No and not try and take on the world or too much, its better to try it than regret never doing it and never believe you’ve stopped learning, there's always something else to learn about.

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What can you see for the future of the building industry?

I can see a positive future, I believe that the sector will thrive and grow, I can also genuinely see it becoming more inclusive and diverse. Technology will play its part but the industry itself will overcome its image problem and showcase the brilliant work that organisations do and demonstrate to the future workforce just what's possible within the industry.

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