Central London Maintenance Association
Report by the Chairman Tim Soden
On the Annual Dinner and Trainee of The Year Awards
Held on Thursday 27th October 2011
Chairman’s Report
I wish to thank the Central London Committee, members, our sponsors and their guests for making the Annual Dinner and Trainee of the Year awards such an amazing event and a huge success and which topped off an unrivalled year of activities and progress in the history of our organisation.
The event was held in the Whitehall Suite of the Royal Horseguards Hotel in SW1, winner of the prestigious accolade AA London Hotel of the year award, and I can report that it hugely exceeded all of our expectations as the reception, food, service and ambiance were exceptional.
The evening was kick started by Calvin Dobinson, Vice Chairman, by
welcoming everyone to the evening before asking me to make the Chairman’s
Speech.
After an introduction by Nigel Charleston, the CLMA Charity Secretary, the
guest Speaker Mike Clarke gave a moving account of the activities and
achievements of the CLMA Adopted Charity Brainwave.
The winner of the Trainee of the Year Award was Steven Hubert from Project
Solver Ltd, who was presented with a Certificate, a Trophy and a £150.00
cheque from Mike Clarke.
The raffle, probably the comic event of the evening, was mishandled by Nigel
and myself and 14 prizes were won raising nearly £900 taking the total for the
last six months to over £5,000.
The comedian Bob Webb was the concluding act for the evening which officially
ended at 12.30, although many stayed on to enjoy the convivial atmosphere
and with some continuing to celebrate until after 3.00 am.
Chairman’s Speech
Good evening. In May this year the CLMA celebrates its 45th anniversary having
been formed in 1966 by some far sited individuals who wanted to promote
excellence by the people involved in the care and maintenance of commercial
buildings.
Four years ago we were down to just 6 members.
To some this may have been a problem but I saw it as a challenge to the
inevitable growing pains of an association coming to terms with an evolving
business sector.
We now have over 130 members, an increase of over 100% year on year.
This year has been very busy we have:
Increased membership 3 fold.
Extended the committee with the appointment of charities and marketing
secretary.
Held two golf days
Organised an open day technical event day at the Thames barrier.
Adopted the Children’s Charity Brain Wave.
Revamped marketing with a new newsletter and invitations.
Created New Sponsorship Opportunities.
Revitalised the web site.
And tonight the Annual Dinner and Trainee of the year award.
All this has been made possible through a loyal and committed committee
supported by sponsors without whom none of this would have been possible.
To those of you here tonight who have selflessly donated your time or business
resources to make a valuable contribution I extend my sincere thanks.
Not only to you for being here but for actually putting yourself out to make a
difference, you are the reason why this association is once again a force for
good within the services sector.
So where to from here?
We are independent and exist to represent every individual who agrees to the
principals of excellence and enjoyment in our workplace.
Next year promises to be even busier and more innovative and to make this
happen my question is simple but challenging.
I ask each of you that if this association stands for what you believe in what do
you want us to represent for you?
Visit our web site or join our LinkedIn group but more importantly sign up and get
involved for the future well being of this industry.
A long time ago before we became swamped by cynicism about trading
practices, the economic climate, political interference or regulatory reform, I
decided to make a difference and those who inspired and joined with me are the
committee, members, our sponsors and guests here tonight.
A business guru called Robert Townsend an Economic commentator on
development and growth in third world countries once said
“If you don’t do it excellently don’t do it at all. Because if it’s not excellent, it
won’t be profitable or fun and if you’re not in business for fun or profit, what the
hell are you doing there”?
Excellence, fun and profit how enjoyable a phrase is that?
Thanks for being here and to those guests who have not already done so I invite
you to join with us to make a difference.
Start by going to www.clma.co.uk.
Thank you.
