Taking its theme as ‘Aspire, Innovate, Thrive’, the annual BMF Members’ Conference and Awards takes place later this week. PBM outlines some of the highlights delegates can expect…
Hosted by TV and radio broadcaster Jason Mohammad, this year’s BMF Members’ Conference and Awards — commonly known as BMF Members’ Day — returns to the stunning surroundings of St George’s Park, Burton on Trent. With a Golf Tournament and other social activities getting proceedings underway at the exclusive JCB Golf and Country Club on 14 September, delegates will then enjoy a packed business programme the following day which tackles a number of the merchant sector’s most pressing issues ahead of the black-tie Awards Dinner in the evening.
For example, in a highly topical session, the subject of Modern Methods of Construction will be examined to discuss whether MMCs present a threat or an opportunity for merchants and building materials suppliers. Mark Farmer, the Government’s champion for MMC in housebuilding, will lead the debate and he will be joined by Brendan Twomey, MD of Berkeley Modular.
The crucial topic of Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace will be tackled by MKM CEO Kate Tinsley and Paul Elliott CBE MBE, the former footballer and current UEFA International Diversity Ambassador. Kate and Paul will discuss how employing colleagues from different backgrounds and cultures make companies better places to work — and also contributes to better business performance.
Other presentations will address important subjects such as Sustainability & Construction Zero, the LEAP Apprenticeship programme and Mental Health Awareness, whilst the event will also incorporate the BMF Plumbing & Heating Forum — hosted by P&H Chairman Mark Bradley, speakers include Wolseley’s Simon Oakland and David Pochin from Pochin Plumbing & Heating Supplies.
Keynote speaker at the event is photographer Giles Duley. Having spent much of his career drawing attention to the long-term impact of conflict and humanitarian crises by highlighting individual stories behind the headlines, Giles’ own story is as dramatic as those of his subjects.
Working in Afghanistan at the height of the conflict there, Giles stepped on an IED losing both legs and his left arm, and nearly losing his life. Despite being told that he would never walk again, by focusing on what he could do, rather than what he couldn’t, less than two years after the incident, he was both walking and working once more.
Attention will then turn to the evening Awards ceremony and the BMF has revealed the shortlist for its 2022 Young Achiever Awards, open to those under 35 working in either a merchant or supplier business.
In drawing up the shortlist, the judges are looking for talented individuals who both excel in their role and have made a recognised contribution to the success of their organisation, for example have introducing fresh ideas and concepts or identifying new opportunities that enhance the business.
Six people have been shortlisted for the Young Merchant Achiever Award:
Harry Andrews, Kent Blaxhill
Josh Guest, Lords Builders Merchants
Matti Hart, Bradfords Building Supplies
Victoria Price, Harlow Timber Group
Jack Reid, Stockgap
Oliver Wilson, Mathewson & Rosemond
Three people have been shortlisted for the Young Supplier Achiever Award:
Ben Farrington, Bostik
Harry Hann, Velux
Kyle Hazeldine, Midland Lead
BMF CEO John Newcomb said: “Congratulations to everyone that has been shortlisted. They have proved their ability to go above and beyond on behalf of their business, and I’m sure every one of them will go on to even greater success in their careers.”
The BMF thanks its Award Sponsors, Bostik (Young Merchant Winner), Mannock (Young Merchant Runner Up), Encon (Young Merchant Bronze Award) and GfK (Young Supplier Achiever).
For more information on the BMF Members Conference and Awards 2022, please visit the events section at www.bmf.org.uk
