WHY I AM STANDING FOR ELECTION AS THE RAIL INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION’S SME GROUP CHAIR
John Chappell
Director, cross-sector entrepreneur, business and corporate leader - MBA, PgDipSL, CMgr, FCMI, MAPM, MIAM, MCIM, LCC
The rail industry is changing, and it’s changing for the better. I am told that the - yet to be published Williams Rail Review – or as many think it will go straight to a DfT White Paper – will make it a requirement that future working arrangements are far more localised and collaborative. This is great news for SMEs right across the rail industry.
SMEs in the UK are world-leading – we have the skills, capability and ambition; we are agile, innovative and extremely hard working. I would make the analogy that we are small and fast like a speedboat rather than a cumbersome supertanker that needs far more time to manoeuvre into position. SMEs can set to task immediately.
This message needs to be heard loud and clear. If I am successful as Chair of the RIA’s SME Group, I will position small and medium sized enterprises at the very heart of the imminent industry reconfiguration.
I want to see a step-change in working practices, and I will especially seek ways to improve procurement – that means more clarity, more collaboration and ultimately a firm commitment to the supply chain.
We’ve heard many promises about a new strategic approach to planning that gets away from the boom and bust of previous investment cycles. This is an exciting prospect.
So, if after the Williams White Paper, this is indeed the case, I will make it my business to push Government and transport authorities for earlier engagement with the industry so that the SME supply chain can positively influence decision-making. I will use every opportunity to keep pressure on the Government on the Rail Sector Deal’s commitment for a 33% spend on SMEs.
SMEs have much to offer the rail sector. There are plenty opportunities to unlock.
I am incredibly optimistic about the sustained growth of rail in the UK and beyond, and especially the part that SMEs will play.
Together let’s make it a reality.
Please vote for me. If you are an RIA SME Group member you will receive an invitation to vote and a voting link from RIA; each company has one vote. Remember to vote before Thursday 12th March.
Director at CPC Project services LLP
5 年Best of luck John, you have my support.
Volunteer
5 年John, good luck, not that you need it, you will be brilliant in the role of representing SMEs. Keep up the good work.
Non Executive Director at CPC Systems
5 年John, Good luck in the election. You are really well qualified to lead this group with your experience working both in Client and SME organisations,?