Business boss takes on national building role

Clare Watson, director of Preston-based construction company Bernard Watson, has been appointed national chair of the National Federation of Builders.

She is only the second female to have ever held the prestigious role and her achievement is extraordinary in context.

With approximately three million jobs accounting for 10 per cent of UK employment, it is estimated that just 12.8 per cent of these people working in construction are female. With 35,000 new workers needed each year to meet demands, it is crucial that the industry encourages more women to pursue careers in construction. Clare’s visibility as the new NFB national chair enables her to inspire other women and promote diversity.

Clare was officially sworn in to begin her twelve month term, and presented ceremonial chains of office, at the NFB’s AGM which took place at the Clifton Arms Hotel in Lytham. It is tradition for a new chair to invite NFB members from across England and Wales to the event and Clare relished the opportunity to showcase the north west to a wide audience.

After the formalities, a gala dinner took place to celebrate the occasion. Guests were entertained all evening by former Manchester City footballer Jim Whitley, who serenaded builders with a medley of classic hits.

Clare delivered an outstanding speech at the event. She pledged to: “build on the ambition of the NFB to be an inclusive federation with clear values of addressing the issues our industry faces, improving and developing the businesses of NFB members, and fighting to ensure equal opportunities for SMEs within the sector.”

The NFB represents small to medium-sized 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 £500m. 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. As national chair of the organisation, Clare will lead an executive board of NFB members who work alongside staff to represent and support the membership. In addressing the members present in Lytham, Clare said: “The challenges the sector faces around skills, diversity and sustainability will be the three pillars of my chairmanship. I look forward to working with you all in the coming year to place the NFB at the heart of efforts to overcome them."