Paul McNaughton, managing director of Darke and Taylor, has been appointed president of the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) for 2012-13.
Inaugurated at the ECA’s annual conference, McNaughton brings 38 years of experience working in the electrical industry to his presidency. He is the 99th ECA president, and has previously served as chair of the Oxford branch between 2002 and 2004. He is an active member of the ECA’s Education and Training, and Employee Relations Committees. He also sits on the national board of the JIB, and is the chair of the London, South East and Southern RJIB.
During his presidency, McNaugton has committed himself to helping firms, especially SMEs, get through the current difficult economic climate, and is determined to ensure that routes into an electrical contracting career remain open for apprentices. He also believes contractors need to continue to invest in developing management skills, to ensure they are well placed to meet demand, to capitalise on new markets and explore new opportunities.
McNaughton said: “This appointment is a real privilege. The industry has given me a lot over the years, from a livelihood and a career, to valued friends and a real understanding of the word ‘co-operation’. It’s a real honour to be able to give something back and represent the best in the electrical contracting industry.”
Steve Bratt, ECA group CEO said: “Paul McNaughton has been an active and valued member of the ECA for many years. We are delighted to appoint him as president. The Association and its members can only benefit from his decades of experience and passion for skills development.”
McNaughton continued: “We need to work together to make sure that our industry weathers the current financial difficulties. From investing in skills and training, to exploring and securing new business opportunities, we need to make the most of every opportunity to ensure that our businesses remain fighting fit. The ECA is here to help.”