David Hopkinson Represents GCS Associates at BMF North West Regional Meeting
David Hopkinson, Client Services Director at GCS Associates, attended the BMF North West Regional Meeting at Bolton Wanderers’ Toughsheet Community Stadium, joining key industry professionals to discuss the latest developments in the building materials sector.
Organised by the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF), the event provided a valuable platform for merchants, suppliers, and professionals to gain insights into economic forecasts, policy updates, and innovations shaping the sector.
Key Takeaways from the Event
The meeting opened with a welcome from Adrian Shelley, BMF Regional Chair, followed by updates from Chris Heeks, BMF Regional Manager for the North, and Brett Amphlett, BMF’s Policy & Public Affairs Manager, who provided insights into key policy developments affecting the industry.
A highlight of the event was the Bank of England forecast update, delivered by Alison Stuart, offering an economic outlook and its implications for the construction and building materials market.
The State of Trade discussion allowed attendees to share market insights, discussing current challenges, opportunities, and future trends. The agenda also included:
- Optimising payment collections for building materials, led by Chris Smith of Ontik Technologies.
- The role of AI in merchanting, presented by Marcin Lisowski of bubo.ai.
- UK brick market evolution, with insights from Mark Morris, Commercial Director at Breedon Products.
The meeting concluded with a BMF Training Update, followed by a networking lunch, allowing attendees to connect and collaborate on industry challenges.
Reflecting on the event, David Hopkinson said:
“Attending the BMF North West Regional Meeting has been an invaluable opportunity to connect with industry peers and discuss the key trends shaping our sector. These meetings are essential for sharing knowledge, staying ahead of market changes, and ensuring businesses in our region are well-positioned for growth.”
Supporting the BMF’s “Materially Different” Campaign
As a long-time supporter of BMF initiatives, GCS Associates is highly involved in the “Materially Different” campaign, which aims to promote careers in the building materials industry and strengthen employer branding across the sector.
This integrated programme is designed to:
✅ Put building materials on the map as a trusted, credible career choice.
✅ Use “Materially Different” branding to differentiate roles in this sector from other industries.
✅ Build pride within the industry to attract, retain, and develop top talent.
✅ Provide a wraparound programme to professionalise HR infrastructure and enhance employer branding.
Managing Director Michael Parry has played a key role in supporting this initiative, working closely with the BMF to showcase career opportunities and develop recruitment strategies that benefit merchants and suppliers alike.
David Hopkinson reinforced GCS Associates’ commitment to the campaign:
“It’s fantastic to support the BMF’s ‘Materially Different’ campaign, which is doing an incredible job in raising awareness about careers in our sector. Building materials is a dynamic, rewarding industry with huge opportunities for progression, and it’s important we continue to attract the best talent. GCS Associates is committed to working alongside the BMF to strengthen employer brands and support businesses in finding and retaining the right people.”
For more information or to discuss how GCS Associates can support your business, contact David Hopkinson at david.hopkinson@gcsassociates.com.
For more information on GCS Associates retained recruitment and RPO solutions, please get in touch.
e: enquiries@gcsassociates.com
t: 0161 660 2548
Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week
At GCS Associates, we are proud to support National Apprenticeship Week by showcasing the incredible journeys of our team members who have benefited from apprenticeships. This week, we highlight Kimberley Hollis, a Recruitment Consultant at GCS Associates, whose apprenticeship played a pivotal role in shaping her career in recruitment and the building materials sector.
Kimberley’s Role at GCS Associates
Kimberley is a specialist Recruitment Consultant at GCS Associates, focusing on the Building Materials sector. Her day-to-day role involves identifying top talent, understanding client needs, and matching candidates with the right opportunities. Beyond recruitment, she offers career advice, interview coaching, and ongoing support to candidates looking to progress in the industry.
Starting Out in the Industry
Kimberley began her career in the builders’ merchant sector, working as a Customer Service Adviser at Buildbase. In this role, she gained valuable experience in customer relations, order management, and understanding the needs of trade professionals. Her passion for the industry and strong client relationships led her to GCS Associates, where she found the perfect opportunity to use her knowledge to help others find career success.
How an Apprenticeship Shaped Her Career
When Kimberley joined GCS, she was eager to build a long-term career with clear development opportunities. She undertook a recruitment apprenticeship, which provided her with a solid foundation in key areas such as finance, marketing, business development, and the recruitment process itself.
Balancing full-time work with her studies, Kimberley completed assignments, assessments, and interviews as part of the course. Her dedication paid off when she achieved a distinction with an impressive 99% score – the highest ever recorded for that qualification.
A Day in the Life of a Recruitment Consultant
Kimberley’s role is dynamic and varied. A typical day includes sourcing candidates, engaging with clients, and developing new business opportunities. Whether she’s helping a job seeker find their next opportunity or assisting a company in securing top talent, she thrives on the fast-paced nature of recruitment. No two days are the same, and that’s exactly what she loves about it!
Overcoming Challenges in the Industry
Recruitment comes with its challenges. Sometimes, even after finding the perfect candidate for a role, unforeseen circumstances arise – candidates might receive counteroffers or decide to stay in their current positions.
Another challenge is shifting perceptions within the building materials industry, especially encouraging more women and young people to consider careers in the sector. Kimberley tackles these obstacles with resilience, strong communication, and a problem-solving mindset.
Proud Achievements and Future Goals
One of Kimberley’s proudest achievements is completing her apprenticeship with a top distinction. Additionally, she takes great pride in placing candidates who go on to thrive and progress in their careers.
For those considering a career in recruitment or the building materials sector, Kimberley offers some valuable advice:
- Be resilient – Setbacks happen, but learning from them is key to success.
- Stay open-minded – There’s always something new to learn.
- Seek guidance – Asking questions and learning from others will help you progress.
Encouraging More Young People and Women into the Industry
The building materials sector has traditionally been seen as male-dominated, which can discourage women and younger individuals from pursuing careers in the field. However, this is changing. Businesses are prioritising diversity, offering more opportunities, and showcasing success stories like Kimberley’s to inspire the next generation.
Final Thoughts
Kimberley’s story is a testament to the value of apprenticeships in providing real career opportunities. The building materials sector offers stability, growth, and the chance to make a tangible impact on the world around us.
If you’re considering an apprenticeship or a career in recruitment, now is the perfect time to take the leap. At GCS Associates, we are proud to support apprenticeships and help individuals build rewarding careers.
Interested in a career in recruitment or the building materials sector? Get in touch with GCS Associates today!
For more information on GCS Associates retained recruitment and RPO solutions, please get in touch.
e: enquiries@gcsassociates.com
t: 0161 660 2548
Meet The Team: David Hopkinson, Client Services Director
We’re excited to introduce David Hopkinson, who has recently joined GCS Associates as our Client Services Director. With a wealth of experience in talent acquisition and workforce solutions, David brings a unique blend of expertise, passion, and strategic insight to our team.
David, welcome to GCS Associates! Can you tell us a bit about your professional background?
Thank you! I’ve been fortunate to spend most of my career in the HR and resourcing industry, working with some of the market leaders such as Manpower, Adecco, Randstad, and the Impellam Group. Over the years, I’ve specialised in talent acquisition and workforce solutions, helping organizations identify and secure the talent they need to meet their strategic objectives.
What excites you most about joining GCS Associates?
GCS Associates is recognized as the market leader in talent within the building materials industry—a sector that’s both dynamic and evolving. I’m excited to bring my expertise to such a well-established organization and contribute to its continued growth.
The building materials sector is undergoing a significant transformation, with an increasing focus on diversity, digitization, and sustainability. These shifts are driving the creation of new roles and opportunities, and it’s more important than ever to attract talent from outside the sector. I’m thrilled to be part of a team that’s committed to helping businesses navigate this changing landscape by delivering innovative staffing solutions tailored to their needs.
What’s your approach to building strong client relationships?
For me, it’s all about collaboration and understanding. Every organization is unique, and I pride myself on taking the time to listen, learn, and understand their specific needs. By aligning tailored recruitment strategies with market trends and the client’s goals, I aim to create sustainable workforce connections that deliver real impact.
What would you say has been the key to your success in talent acquisition?
It comes down to staying ahead of market trends and maintaining a strong focus on relationships.
Whether it’s with clients or candidates, trust and mutual understanding are essential.I also believe in the power of innovation and adaptability—especially in a field like recruitment, where the landscape is constantly evolving.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work, I’m all about family time. I’m married with two children, and we love going on holidays together. I’m also passionate about sports and enjoy walking my two dogs, Benji and Bella – they definitely keep me active!
How do you see the talent acquisition needs of the construction supplies industry evolving?
The world of construction supplies is changing rapidly. There’s a growing emphasis on sustainability, diversity, and the adoption of digital technologies. These trends are driving the need for new roles and skill sets, and organizations must think creatively to attract the right talent. It’s no longer just about finding people with direct industry experience—it’s about identifying transferable skills from other sectors and building a diverse, forward-thinking workforce.
Lastly, what’s your vision for your role at GCS Associates?
My vision is to help GCS continue its impressive track record by strengthening client relationships and expanding our reach. I’m committed to delivering tailored solutions that support our clients in achieving their goals while creating meaningful opportunities for candidates. By embracing the changes in the industry, I’m confident we’ll continue to deliver exceptional value and drive even greater success in the building materials sector.
Welcome aboard, David!
We’re thrilled to have David on the team and can’t wait to see the positive impact he’ll make. If you’d like to learn more about how David and GCS Associates can support your talent acquisition needs, get in touch today!
e: david.hopkinson@gcsassociates.com
t: 07775568043
For more information on GCS Associates retained recruitment and RPO solutions, please get in touch.
e: enquiries@gcsassociates.com
t: 0161 660 2548
Delivering Recruitment Excellence – GCS Associates and Lords Group
Lords Group is a prominent supplier of building materials and DIY goods in the UK, operating across both the ‘light side’ (building materials and timber) and the ‘heavy side’ (civils and landscaping) of the market. With 32 locations nationwide and a thriving online platform, Lords Group is one of the fastest-growing merchant businesses in the UK.
Recruiting for a diverse organisation like Lords Group is no small task, particularly for niche and senior roles. Heather McMeckan, Recruitment Manager at Lords Group, has been pivotal in bringing recruitment in-house. However, for specialist and hard-to-fill roles, she recognises the value of agency support – and GCS Associates proved to be the ideal partner.
The Challenge
Heather shared the unique recruitment challenges faced by Lords Group:
- Transitioning to In-House Recruitment: Lords Group historically relied heavily on agencies – Heather’s role was to change that, focusing on organic recruitment for most roles while using agencies selectively for specialist positions.
- Filling a Senior Health & Safety Role: One particular vacancy proved challenging. Despite efforts to advertise the role organically, suitable candidates were scarce. Time was running out, and the role required a candidate with highly specific skills within a strict salary band.
Heather explained, “Like many organisations, our policy is to try recruiting organically first, but for specialist roles like this, sometimes you need that extra network and GCS proved themselves as true specialist recruiters in our industry.”
The Solution
Having previously worked with Lords Group, Michael Parry, Managing Director at GCS Associates, was approached by Heather for support. Leveraging GCS Associates’ extensive network, Michael promised to deliver high-quality candidates that matched the specific requirements of the role.
Heather remarked, “Mike really impressed us with his knowledge of the sector and the effort he put into finding the right candidates. His background in recruiting for merchants gave him a clear advantage. We chose GCS over a dedicated HSE recruitment consultancy due to their specialist sector expertise.”
Despite tight constraints on the salary and a demanding brief, GCS Associates left no stone unturned. Michael and his team conducted a thorough search, contacting hundreds of potential candidates and presenting a strong shortlist.
“GCS really went above and beyond,” Heather added. “The candidates they presented were not only highly qualified but also a perfect cultural fit for our organisation.” Thanks to GCS Associates, Lords Group successfully hired a highly qualified candidate who fit the brief perfectly. Heather was particularly impressed by the professionalism, efficiency, and dedication shown by Michael and his team.
“We had very specific requirements for this role, and Mike delivered,” Heather said. “It’s clear that he knows this sector inside out, and his network is exceptional. I would 100% recommend GCS Associates.”
Additionally, Heather acknowledged that the process highlighted the importance of partnership and collaboration in recruitment. “This experience reaffirmed how effective the right recruitment agency can be when they truly understand the needs of the business,” she noted.
Michael Parry, Managing Director of GCS Associates, reflected on the partnership:
“Working with Heather and Lords Group has been (and always is) a fantastic experience – they have a great employer brand within the sector. Their openness to collaboration and their clear understanding of what they needed made it much easier for us to deliver results. Lords Group is such a dynamic organisation, and we’re thrilled to have played a part in their ongoing success.”
Michael also noted that the success of this recruitment demonstrated the effectiveness of industry-focused agencies. “It’s about being proactive and knowing where to look. We’re proud to have supported Lords Group in securing the best talent for their business.”
What we do
GCS Associates are specialist consultancy providing talent acquisition and staffing solutions to the building materials, construction, technical & engineering sectors.
With over 15 years’ experience partnering with a wide range of businesses from FTSE 100s to SME’s & smaller independent businesses – we simply provide the right talent to the best organisations.
At GCS Associates, we work with our clients to find the best recruitment solution for them. If you’d like any advice on recruitment or retention strategy, please get in touch.
e: enquiries@gcsassociates.com
t: 0161 660 2548
Celebrating Builders’ Merchant Awards 2024
The Builders’ Merchant Awards 2024 once again proved to be a highlight of the industry calendar, bringing together key figures from across the sector for an evening dedicated to celebrating excellence, innovation, and hard work. Held at [venue], the event recognised the outstanding contributions of businesses and individuals, shining a light on the achievements that continue to drive the industry forward.
As proud sponsors of the event, GCS Associates were delighted to support this prestigious occasion and be part of such a fantastic celebration. Managing Director, Michael Parry, along with the GCS team, attended the awards, enjoying an evening of networking, inspiration, and recognition of the industry’s finest. The team was stationed at Table 31, where they had the opportunity to catch up with clients, colleagues, and industry peers.
Recognising the Best in the Industry
The awards ceremony itself was a testament to the dedication and innovation within the builders’ merchant sector. Winners were announced across a variety of categories, each one showcasing the hard work and expertise that keep the industry moving forward. From sustainability initiatives and customer service excellence to business growth and technological innovation, the range of awards reflected the depth of talent and ambition within the sector.
One particularly exciting aspect of this year’s awards was the emergence of new talent. It was fantastic to see so many rising stars recognised, demonstrating the bright future ahead for the industry. Categories such as Apprentice of the Year and Rising Star highlighted the next generation of professionals making their mark, bringing fresh ideas and enthusiasm to the sector. Their contributions are essential to the continued evolution of the industry, and it was inspiring to see their hard work acknowledged on such a prestigious stage.
An Evening of Celebration and Connection
Beyond the awards, the evening provided a fantastic opportunity to connect with industry peers, exchange ideas, and reflect on the year’s successes. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie, with plenty of conversations around the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the sector.
Speaking after the event, Michael Parry shared his thoughts: “It’s always an honour to be part of the Builders’ Merchant Awards. This event not only recognises excellence but also highlights the resilience, innovation, and talent within the industry. It was particularly great to see so many new faces being celebrated, showing just how much future potential there is in our sector. At GCS Associates, we are proud to support and engage with the talented people who make this industry so dynamic.”
As the evening came to a close, it was clear that the Builders’ Merchant Awards 2024 had once again delivered an unforgettable experience. The GCS Associates team left inspired by the achievements of those recognised and excited to continue supporting the growth and success of the industry.
A huge congratulations to all the winners, finalists, and nominees—your hard work and dedication are truly inspiring! Here’s to another successful year ahead for the builders’ merchant sector.
For more information on GCS Associates retained recruitment and RPO solutions, please get in touch.
e: enquiries@gcsassociates.com
t: 0161 660 2548
Proud Sponsors of the Builders’ Merchant Journal Awards 2024
The Builders’ Merchant Journal (BMJ) Awards 2024 was a spectacular event that brought together industry leaders, innovators, and dedicated professionals to celebrate excellence in the Builders’ Merchant sector. GCS Associates was truly honoured to be a sponsor of this prestigious occasion and to witness first-hand the incredible achievements of those shaping the future of our industry.
A Night of Celebration and Recognition
The BMJ Awards are a key event in the industry calendar, recognising outstanding contributions, innovation, and excellence across the Builders’ Merchant sector. From dedicated teams to pioneering businesses, the event showcased the best and brightest in the industry. It was an inspiring evening that highlighted the hard work, passion, and commitment of all those nominated, reaffirming just how dynamic and resilient our sector continues to be.
Congratulations to All Nominees and Winners!
A huge congratulations to all the finalists and winners at this year’s awards! Each nomination is a testament to the resilience, dedication, and progress within the industry, and it was fantastic to see so many well-deserving businesses and individuals being recognised. Their unwavering commitment to excellence ensures that the sector continues to grow and thrive despite the challenges faced by the wider economy.
GCS Associates and the Timber Merchant of the Year Award
One of the evening’s highlights for us at GCS Associates was presenting the Timber Merchant of the Year award. Our Managing Director, Michael Parry, was thrilled to take the stage and present this well-deserved accolade to Jewson. Their dedication to excellence, outstanding customer service, and strong focus on sustainability in the timber sector make them a standout leader in the industry. This award is a reflection of their tireless efforts to set the benchmark for quality and service, and we extend our warmest congratulations to the entire Jewson team.
A Proud Moment for GCS Associates
At GCS Associates, we take immense pride in being specialist recruiters for the Building Materials sector, connecting top talent with leading businesses and helping the industry flourish. Our role goes beyond recruitment; we are passionate about supporting the continued success of businesses and professionals within the sector, ensuring they have the resources and talent they need to succeed.
Sponsoring and attending the BMJ Awards 2024 reaffirmed our commitment to supporting and celebrating those who make a real difference. The awards ceremony provided an excellent opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and celebrate the achievements that make this industry such a dynamic and rewarding one to be part of.
We would like to extend our thanks to the Builders’ Merchant Journal for organising such a fantastic event and to everyone who made the evening such a resounding success. Events like these are crucial in recognising and celebrating the passion and expertise that drive the Builders’ Merchant sector forward, and we are proud to be part of such an inspiring industry.
Here’s to another great year for the Builders’ Merchant sector! 🚀
For more information on GCS Associates retained recruitment and RPO solutions, please get in touch.
e: enquiries@gcsassociates.com
t: 0161 660 2548
How to Make Your Recruitment Strategy More Successful
In today’s competitive talent acquisition landscape, a successful recruitment strategy requires businesses to move from reactive approaches to proactive, forward-thinking practices. With 2024 set to be a challenging year for attracting top talent, companies must rethink their strategies to engage the best candidates effectively. At GCS Associates, we believe that building a robust recruitment approach is about partnerships, adaptability, and a deep understanding of market trends. Here are our insights on crafting a more successful recruitment strategy:
Transform Your Recruitment Partnerships
The days of transactional relationships with recruitment agencies are over. To thrive in the current market, businesses must seek transformational partnerships with agencies that truly understand their industry, customers, and competitors. A great recruitment partner invests time in learning about your organisation, aligning their values with yours, and integrating seamlessly with your hiring processes. Transactional recruiters often show minimal interest in your company’s operations, focusing solely on filling vacancies quickly. In contrast, a strong partner will act as an extension of your team, offering insights into talent trends, building long-term talent pipelines, and tailoring their approach to your specific needs. This level of collaboration ensures that your recruitment process is not only effective but also aligned with your company’s broader goals.
Adopt a Skills-First Hiring Approach
Shifting to a skills-first recruitment model can be transformative for your business. At GCS Associates, we recommend a four-step strategy to integrate this approach into your hiring practices:
Conduct a Skills Audit – Begin by identifying the critical and desirable skills required for each role. This helps you prioritise your needs and refine your focus.
Redefine ‘Experience’ – Move beyond traditional definitions of experience. Consider a combination of technical and interpersonal skills to evaluate candidates holistically.
Prioritise Transferable Skills – Instead of focusing solely on formal qualifications, emphasise transferable and soft skills that align with your company’s needs and culture.
Elevate Job Descriptions – Use insights from your skills audit to craft job descriptions that clearly articulate the essential and desirable skills for each position. By focusing on skills over rigid qualifications, you open your talent pool to diverse candidates, enhancing innovation and adaptability within your teams.
Understand and Cater to Gen Z Expectations
The workforce is evolving, with Generation Z increasingly making up a significant portion of job seekers. This tech-savvy generation brings unique expectations that businesses must consider to remain competitive. To appeal to Gen Z; focus on creating a seamless, technology-driven recruitment experience, simplify your online application process and leverage video interviews and digital platforms.
Maintain an active employer brand presence on social media. Personalisation is also critical. Gen Z values tailored experiences, so consider customising communication touchpoints across your recruitment journey—through emails, chat platforms, and social media engagement.
Strengthen Your Employer Value Proposition
Offering competitive salaries is no longer enough to attract top talent. Instead, focus on a holistic employer value proposition (EVP) that reflects your company’s culture, benefits, and commitment to employee well-being. Flexible working arrangements, professional development opportunities, and inclusive workplace policies are now essential components of an attractive EVP. Additionally, pay attention to the candidate experience during the hiring process. A seamless, respectful, and engaging experience leaves a lasting positive impression, making candidates more likely to join—and stay with—your organisation. Conversely, a poor experience can deter top talent, regardless of how attractive your offer may be.
Embrace Proactive Recruitment
Proactive recruitment is more than a strategy. It requires businesses to look beyond immediate hiring needs, building talent pipelines and fostering relationships with potential candidates well in advance. This approach ensures that your organisation has a ready pool of skilled professionals to draw from as roles open up. By integrating these strategies into your recruitment process, your organisation will not only stay ahead in the competitive talent market but also build teams that are well-equipped to drive long-term success. At GCS Associates, we’re committed to helping businesses unlock their full potential by transforming their recruitment strategies into powerful, proactive systems. Are you ready to reimagine your recruitment approach? Let’s work together to shape the future of your talent acquisition strategy.
At GCS Associates, we work with our clients to find the best recruitment solution for them. If you’d like any advice on recruitment or retention strategy, please get in touch.
e: enquiries@gcsassociates.com
t: 0161 660 2548
The Importance of Apprenticeships in the Building Materials Sector
Apprenticeships are a cornerstone of career development, providing young people with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, develop industry-specific expertise, and chart a clear pathway toward a fulfilling career. This is especially true in the Building Materials sector, a dynamic and vital industry that underpins construction and infrastructure development across the UK.
At GCS Associates, we are passionate about supporting the growth and evolution of this sector. As ambassadors for the Sector Awareness program, we proudly champion the Building Materials industry as the “Sector of Choice.” Our involvement reflects our commitment to fostering talent and helping individuals and businesses thrive.
Why Apprenticeships Matter in the Building Materials Sector
While the Building Materials industry boasts incredible success stories, it often flies under the radar for young people exploring career options. Apprenticeships are a game-changer in addressing this gap. They provide:
- Hands-On Learning: Apprenticeships equip individuals with practical, real-world skills that can’t be taught in a classroom. These experiences make apprentices job-ready from day one.
- Industry-Specific Knowledge: Apprentices gain a deep understanding of the Building Materials sector, from supply chain logistics to innovative product development.
- Career Growth Opportunities: With a strong foundation laid during an apprenticeship, individuals can pursue a wide range of roles, from technical positions to leadership opportunities.
By participating in events such as The Festival of Apprentices at Manchester Metropolitan University, GCS Associates—on behalf of the Builders Merchant Federation (BMF)—actively promotes these opportunities. Our goal is to inspire young people to explore the wealth of possibilities within the sector.
GCS Associates: Advocating for Talent and Sector Awareness
Our mission at GCS Associates is twofold: to support businesses in attracting and retaining talent, and to help individuals achieve their career aspirations. As ambassadors for the Sector Awareness program, we work tirelessly to position the Building Materials industry as an attractive and rewarding field.
This mission aligns seamlessly with our role as brand ambassadors for our clients, where we help them become “Employers of Choice.” We believe that by highlighting the vibrant opportunities in the Building Materials sector, we can shape the next generation of industry leaders.
The Path Forward: Encouraging the Next Generation
The Festival of Apprentices in Manchester provided a platform for us to engage with school and college leavers, offering insights into the diverse career paths available in the Building Materials sector. Through these conversations, we witnessed the excitement and interest that apprenticeships spark in young adults.
Our message to them is clear: a career in Building Materials is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to build something tangible, impactful, and lasting.
Join the Movement
As we continue to support the BMF’s campaign for sector awareness, GCS Associates invites you to join us in celebrating the importance of apprenticeships. Whether you’re a young individual exploring career options or an employer looking to attract new talent, we’re here to help.
Together, let’s shine a spotlight on the Building Materials sector and inspire the next generation to build their futures within this incredible industry.
To learn more about apprenticeship opportunities or how GCS Associates can support your business, reach out to us at ✉️ enquiries@gcsassociates.com.
At GCS Associates, we work with our clients to find the best recruitment solution for them. If you’d like any advice on recruitment or retention strategy, please get in touch.
e: enquiries@gcsassociates.com
t: 0161 660 2548
GCS Associates Delighted to Support BMF's Sector Awareness Campaign Launch
GCS Associates were privileged to attend the recent unveiling of the Builders Merchants Federation’s (BMF) new sector awareness campaign. This fully integrated program aims to position the building materials industry as a vital, varied, and vibrant sector, offering a wide range of career opportunities for school and college leavers, career changers, and those looking to transfer their skills into a new area.
The campaign, launched under the strapline “Materially Different” and with messaging encouraging people to join the sector to “Make a Material Difference,” is designed to appeal to a diverse audience. It highlights why a career in building materials is unique compared to other industries and showcases the extensive variety of careers available within the sector.
The Transformative Power of Careers in Building Materials
For the first time, the program clearly defines the building materials sector as one that involves the manufacture, import, distribution, and sale of building materials and products through merchants for construction, infrastructure, house building, property, and RMI markets.
Key elements of the program include a dynamic new careers website, which will feature details of every BMF member, and a Toolkit providing guidance and assets for members to strengthen their employer brands. Developed by brand specialist CMDi in collaboration with the BMF executive and a working group of BMF members, the campaign presents a unified front that every member can support and benefit from.
BMF Chairman Richard Hill commented, “We work in a fantastic sector that offers excellent opportunities to the talented people working here. However, when it comes to attracting new talent, we are competing with many other sectors. It is time that we championed the building materials sector to the rest of the construction industry and the public at large.
“By initiating this campaign and investing in the future of building materials, the BMF Board seeks to help and support our members in attracting the best recruits possible, ensuring our sector continues to develop and grow long into the future.”
BMF CEO John Newcomb added, “By working together, we can shape and strengthen the future of our industry. This long-term program will make our industry an employment destination rather than an afterthought. It targets career starters, career switchers, and those already working in the sector. To attract, retain, and grow talent, we must build pride in our sector.”
Building Futures: Unveiling the Opportunities in the Building Materials Sector
GCS Associates are delighted to support BMF’s Sector Awareness Campaign Launch – a fantastic initiative which will help showcase the fantastic careers across the Merchant Sector.
We are a dedicated team of talent acquisition specialists passionate about promoting the Building Materials sector as the ultimate destination for career-minded individuals. With almost two decades of industry experience, we have witnessed firsthand the power of employer branding and talent cultivation in shaping the sector’s future.
Employer branding lies at the heart of our mission and much of the work we do for our clients. To attract top talent, it is crucial to establish companies as employers of choice within the Building Materials sector. Through strategic branding initiatives, GCS Associates aims to showcase the unique culture, values, and career opportunities offered by companies in this field, positioning them as desirable destinations for job seekers, particularly those currently working in other sectors.
At GCS Associates, we work with our clients to find the best recruitment solution for them. If you’d like any advice on recruitment or retention strategy, please get in touch.
e: enquiries@gcsassociates.com
t: 0161 660 2548
UK Construction Sector: Activity & Growth
GCS Associates is pleased to report a significant acceleration in the UK construction sector as we enter the second half of the year. The latest data from the S&P Global UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index™ (PMI) indicates a robust increase in both activity and new orders, with the index climbing to 55.3 in July from 52.2 in June.
This marks five consecutive months of growth and represents the fastest rate of expansion since May 2022.
Key Highlights:
- Activity Increase Across All Sectors: In July, all three categories of construction saw a rise in activity, with housing projects returning to growth. Commercial activity showed solid growth, while civil engineering experienced its fastest expansion in nearly two and a half years.
- New Orders and Business Expansion: The success in securing new orders at the start of the third quarter was a significant factor in the rise in construction activity. New business expanded for the sixth consecutive month at the strongest pace since April 2022. Improved customer confidence led to the release of previously paused projects.
- Rising Workloads and Employment: The increased workloads resulted in quicker rises in both purchasing activity and employment. Staffing levels increased for the third consecutive month, marking the fastest growth in a year. Purchasing activity also saw the most pronounced rise in almost two years.
- Supplier Performance: The heightened demand for inputs put some pressure on suppliers in July, resulting in unchanged lead times and ending a 16-month sequence of improving vendor performance. Issues with manufacturing and transportation were reported, although some suppliers maintained sufficient stock levels to meet orders.
- Future Outlook: Despite these challenges, construction firms remain optimistic about future activity. Although sentiment dipped to a three-month low in July, improved client confidence is expected to drive growth in new orders and subsequent activity.
Andrew Harker, Economics Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, stated: “The election-related slowdown in growth seen in June proved to be temporary, with the pace of expansion roaring ahead in July. Firms saw the strongest increases in new orders and activity since 2022 as paused projects were released amid reports of improved customer confidence. The strength of demand moved the sector closer to capacity, ending a recent period of improving supplier performance. There were also signs of inflationary pressures picking up, something that will need to be watched closely if demand strength continues in the months ahead.”
Michael Parry, Managing Director at GCS Associates comments:
“The recruitment market is also following suit, with a significant uptick in activity. We are seeing a high volume of vacancies across the sector, reflecting the overall growth and optimism within the industry. This surge in hiring is a positive indicator of the sector’s robust health and its promising outlook for the coming months.”
GCS Associates will continue to monitor these developments closely and provide updates on the trends and opportunities within the UK construction sector.
At GCS Associates, we work with our clients to find the best recruitment solution for them. If you’d like any advice on recruitment or retention strategy, please get in touch.
e: enquiries@gcsassociates.com
t: 0161 660 2548