Time flies, and it is hard to believe that my time as RMBA president will come to an end when I hand over the batten to current vice-president Johnny Calley.
My two-year term will finish at the AGM in Rotorua this week, and it has been an absolute privilege to lead the organisation. While, at times, I have found myself outside my comfort zone, I have gained so much at a personal and professional level, and can only hope I’ve done the role justice.
Looking back, it has undoubtedly been an interesting couple of years in the construction game. We have had to deal with what seems to be one new issue after another, and these unique challenges have certainly put some strain on us all at times.
Gift that keeps on giving
Following on from the economic effects of Covid-19, which seems to be the gift that keeps on giving, we’ve faced supply chain issues, rapid price escalations, staff shortages, land shortages, consenting delays, tougher bank lending, interest rate hikes, building code changes and, of course, the infamous Gib shortage.
It’s quite a confronting list — and plenty of reasons not to get out of bed.
However, despite all these challenges, we have continually managed to build a record number of buildings that people live, work and play in.
I believe this is a testament to the men and woman that work in the industry, because no matter what is presented there are always people working to solve these problems.
Many and varied interactions
My many and varied interactions with people is one of the aspects that I have enjoyed most about this role.
I have met government ministers, CEOs of large construction companies, and many individual Registered Master Builder members from all associations nationwide.
Although travel has been a little difficult over the past two years, I have managed to get around the country and visit all the branches. It’s always great to see the passion that people hold for the building industry and the RMBA brand.
I have noticed that those members who put the time into attending meetings and events tend to have a great understanding of current issues and trends.
So I would encourage you all to seek out your local branch and take advantage of all the resources on offer.
The RMBA does not run itself, and I would like to acknowledge the hard work that goes on behind the scenes to support all our members to Build a Better New Zealand.
There is a huge amount of work and time that goes in to providing the services that make us the envy of a lot of other membership organisations.
This includes our annual events, guarantees, training, and the advocacy we provide not for only our members but the entire industry — and the list goes on.
So, a huge thank you to the RMBA and MBS Boards, chief executive David Kelly, the senior leadership teams, regional branch managers, regional service officers and all the other staff working for the RMBA for your dedication and input over the past couple of years.
I am looking forward to this year’s Constructive in Rotorua on August 25-26. There is a fantastic line up of speakers covering residential and commercial building with regard to this year’s theme, Lessons from the Past, Strategy for Today.
With confidence falling, how do we prevent the typical boom-bust cycles that have plagued the construction sector for the past 50 years?
So that is me signing off. You will be in safe hands with Johnny taking over as national president, and I wish him all the very best in this role.
