It’s February, which means it’s SAPCA Conference time – and I’’m really looking forward to another exciting event at the impressive St George’s Park National Football Centre. We have an exciting line-up of speakers this year, led by motivational expert Brad Burton.
The conference will also include a session on the Association’s strategy refresh, which we are undertaking throughout the year. The review will be driven by the changing world around us. A new Conservative majority government, the impact of Brexit, important environmental challenges and continual social change are all topics which are shaping our industry.
At its heart, the strategy review will look to keep SAPCA fresh and relevant. Therefore, the upcoming conference gives us a good opportunity to get together, listen to those “from outside our world” and challenge ourselves to pause and think.
The strategy was also discussed at length at our recent SAPCA Board away-day. Since then a large part of the early development of the strategy review has been about listening to the membership.
I’m very conscious that we are a membership organisation – and without members’ support we can do nothing. Our collective voice is worth so much when working with our stakeholders, but we need to work hard to be communicating and putting on events that are relevant. Chris Trickey and the SAPCA team are always busy working with stakeholders “behind the scenes” and our Board is made up of the membership – with a sprinkling of independents, like myself, to bring an outside perspective.
So as we launch the consultation and working groups, I hope all member companies feel able to get involved. The conference offers a perfect opportunity for this – so please do not hesitate to come and have a chat. I look forward to seeing you all at St George’s Park!