Doesn’t time fly when you are busy? I was amazed when it was time for my last President’s view and the Annual Conference has come round again. Below are my reflections on the year

In summer 2008 we were still enthusiastic about potential business. Thank goodness we had undertaken a deep-rooted Strategic Review that looked at threats as well as opportunities.

Autumn started with a stark reality check. Stock markets crashed, hitting confidence and causing a sharp downturn. The ECA was quick to give advice on battening down the hatches for survival and checking business plans.

Winter was bleak as global recession set in. Advice on redundancies, insolvency and cashflow became the norm. Life had to go on and in November I was privileged to attend the 40th anniversary of the JIB and, in February, the ECA Annual Dinner. Both were well attended and celebrated successes.

There was hope this spring when even I was surprised by the resilience of the electrical contractor as he battled against unfair business practices.We lobbied politicians on a sustainable future and a level playing field for material procurement and people – the two most important aspects of our business. We are not out of the fire yet but we have the resolve to battle through the snags.

By the time you read this I will have handed over the ECA presidency to Martin Bailey. I pledge him my full support and wish him every success for his coming year in office.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor