CPA new CEO Steve Mullholland on sector challenges and opportunities

“Hire rates will always be a challenge. And we have to work with the Government and stakeholders to be realistic about the targets they are trying to set for the sector…..”

Says Steve Mulholland, the new CPA CEO, who Peter Haddock caught up with yesterday at the CPA conference.

In this exclusive interview, Steve discusses the new CPA commissioned report with Oxford Economics, highlighting the sector’s value.

Link here -  https://www.cpa.uk.net/news/findings-of-the-first-fully-comprehensive-study-of-uk-plant-hire-to-be-unveiled-at-the-cpa-conference

He also shares his thoughts on the challenges and opportunities facing members, whilst discussing the topics of decarbonisation and sustainability.

Steve: “We need to take an approach of evolution, not revolution, to ensure member businesses remain sustainable.

“For example, the new Government has ambitious targets that don’t always align with current industry realities. So, as a voice for our members, we will be advocating for gradual transitions, emphasising the need for infrastructure that can support the energy transition without sacrificing operational efficiency.

On Skills and People, Steve adds: “Attracting young people is one thing, but retaining them is where we need to get better.”

Concluding, Steve said: “The CPA now has nearly 2000 members, large and small and we are committed to supporting their success whether that’s through adopting new innovations, becoming more sustainable or developing the future workforce.”