Andy Rowlands appointed NFRC President as Colin McCorquodale concludes two-year tenure
The presidential handover was formally marked at the Scottish Roofing Awards, where the ceremonial chain of office was passed from Colin to Andy in front of NFRC members and industry representatives.
Andy, Director of Rowlands Roofing Ltd, brings more than 40 years of industry experience to the role. A recognised Master Craftsman and previous winner of the IFD International Roof of the Year Award, he has served on the NFRC Board since 2018. He is a former Chair of the NFRC South Western Region Committee and currently serves as Deputy Chair of the NFRC Heritage Committee. Andy also represents NFRC internationally through the International Federation for the Roofing Trade (IFD) Pitched Roofing Commission and Training Commission.
Reflecting on two years of progress
Colin steps down following a two-year presidency during which NFRC has made significant progress in strengthening its governance, enhancing member benefits, and increasing engagement across its regions.
Among the key achievements during Colin's presidency has been a comprehensive governance review, including revised regional terms of reference, the establishment of a Finance, Audit and Risk Committee, and changes to strengthen regional leadership arrangements.
Colin steps down following a two-year presidency during which NFRC has made significant progress in strengthening its governance, enhancing member benefits, and increasing engagement across its regions. Among the key achievements during Colin's presidency has been a comprehensive governance review, including revised regional terms of reference, the establishment of a Finance, Audit and Risk Committee, and changes to strengthen regional leadership arrangements.
His tenure has also seen the introduction of new website and customer relationship management systems, additional member benefits, new health and safety initiatives, and record membership levels.
A particularly personal achievement has been his fundraising for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. Following the Scottish Roofing Awards, Colin concluded his presidency having raised an impressive £60,000 for the charity, thanks to the generosity of NFRC members and industry colleagues.
Reflecting on his presidency, Colin said, "I am delighted that we now have a really cohesive board. These changes, along with our ongoing governance discussions, have allowed us to look critically at how we operate and ensure our governance is fit for a modern professional trade association, offering members greater transparency.
"I know that with Andy the Presidency is in safe hands and I know he will fulfil the role of President with great diligence."
Addressing members at the Scottish Roofing Awards, Andy outlined three priorities for his two-year presidency: protecting the roofing industry, maintaining high standards, and building career opportunities.
With extensive experience in roofing contracting and hands-on training, Andy intends to ensure the practical challenges faced by roofing businesses remain central to NFRC's work.
His presidency will emphasise representing specialist subcontractors, recognising the financial and operational pressures facing businesses, and ensuring the industry's voice continues to be heard by policymakers in Westminster and Holyrood.
Maintaining professional standards will also be a priority, with Andy highlighting the importance of technical competence, safety, and compliance as regulatory requirements evolve.
Speaking about his appointment, Andy said, "Standing here before you today as the new President of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors is, without a doubt, the proudest moment of my working life.
"As many of you know, I am still closely involved in the day-to-day realities of contracting, as well as hands-on training. I live and breathe the exact same challenges you all face every single day."
Addressing the industry's skills shortage will form another central part of Andy's presidency. He has committed to supporting regional training initiatives, strengthening apprenticeship opportunities, attracting new entrants into roofing, and ensuring existing workers can access continued professional development.
Andy added, "We cannot protect our future without investing heavily in the next generation. The skills shortage is an industry-wide challenge, but as roofers, we have a unique story to tell and a highly skilled trade to promote.
"None of this can be done in isolation. The strength of the NFRC has always been its collective voice and the shared expertise of its membership."
The handover marks a new chapter for NFRC, with Andy taking forward the organisational progress achieved under Colin's leadership while bringing his own priorities to the role.
Paying tribute to his predecessor, Andy recognised Colin's commitment to the Federation and his work representing the industry throughout his presidency.
"Looking back at your tenure, you have truly set a high bar. As a brilliant ambassador for the NFRC, you have represented us flawlessly at events, championed our industry at the highest levels, and tirelessly backed our mission."
Looking ahead, Andy concluded, "I look forward to working alongside all of you over the next two years to make our industry stronger, safer, and more prosperous."
As is traditional for incoming presidents, Andy's term in the role means that NFRC will support his nominated charity, The Lighthouse Charity. The charity is the only one in the UK and Ireland dedicated to providing free, confidential emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing support to construction workers and their families.
Andy takes over the presidency from Colin McCorquodale, Director at Archibald McCorquodale & Son Ltd, who will now serve an additional two years on the board as Immediate Past President. Sharon Llewellyn, Director at JPR Roofing and Flooring Ltd was elected as Vice President.
