Within their normal business environment, there is a strong and healthy competition among them to meet the rapidly growing demand for their expert skills and services. As dedicated as they may be in support of their trade association, LCA members’ first priority is, of course, a commitment to the success of their own business. 

They must therefore rely upon the administration of Association business to be conducted independently on their behalf in a professional manner that reflects their own attitude towards quality standards. 

The secretariat service demanded by LCA members is a vital co-ordinating role that links together the many aspects of the Association. Primarily and most essentially, it provides the communications focal point for all members. It is the medium by which the operational decisions made by Council are conveyed and how feedback from the general membership is relayed back to Council. 

There are further responsibilities for the safeguarding and reporting of the Association’s finances, a networking role for the annual vetting programme and the organising of the annual Directory (click here to get your copy). The Secretary is required to liaise with each of the Association’s committees and is responsible for the event management of each function required by the LCA, including the National Seminar, AGM, the various Council and committee meetings – even the golf day.

As well as event management, there is a project management requirement and, as a notable example, the recent development and launch of the Guarantee Scheme demanded considerable administrative input and co-ordination.

The phenomenal growth of the LCA from its inception in 1984 has in turn made increasing demands upon those charged with its administration.

From an initial part time requirement provided in the early stages first by the Lead Development Association, then by an independent individual and more recently through the Lead Sheet Association, this year (1999) the services of an independent specialist administration service were engaged.

The Lead Contractors Association now operates from a new office base in East Grinstead, West Sussex, with a full time secretariat facility servicing the needs of its members. The professional resources now utilised will enable the LCA to meet the demands of its industry and its membership, as it continues to strengthen in terms of numbers, reputation and status.