Bathroom manufacturers have warned that challenges in hiring talent are now becoming business-critical. In order to address the skills shortage in the sector, the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) has stepped in with several initiatives prioritising workforce development.
In late 2024, the association held a roundtable event to thrash out the issues in the sector around recruitment. Recognising the challenges of attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive marketplace, the BMA says it seeks to provide its members with the tools and partnerships necessary to identify and nurture the right candidates for long-term employer investment.
Recently, the BMA has strengthened its commitment by welcoming 3 recruitment organisations as affiliates. The first is SOS Executive Search Ltd, which is led by MD Sean O’Sullivan, who brings over 20 years of expertise in recruitment for the building products, sales, marketing, and C-Suite sectors. Next up is Wilson Brook Consulting Ltd, an executive search and consulting firm led by Neil Holloway, which specialises in recruitment across the bathroom, plumbing, heating, and building materials markets. Finally, Designer Recruitment, which joined the BMA in December and is headed by Ben Paine, is a leading name in recruitment for the KBB and Merchant industries.
Speaking on the partnership, Sean O’Sullivan of SOS Exec, said: “The BMA plays a pivotal role in driving innovation and excellence within the bathroom industry. By collaborating with the association, we can ensure its members can access expert guidance in attracting and retaining the best executive talent – a critical investment for long-term success.”
Neil Holloway, founder and MD of Wilson Brook, added: “The bathroom manufacturing sector is brimming with potential. Our partnership with the BMA is about harnessing that potential by matching skilled professionals to roles that align with their talents and aspirations, ultimately driving the entire industry forward.”
Ben Paine, MD and Founder of Designer Recruitment, also said: “Partnering with the BMA allows us to contribute to developing a thriving sector. Retention is just as important as attraction; focusing on career progression and employee satisfaction can help create organisations that people want to stay with and grow within.”
The BMA’s initiatives extend beyond recruitment. In 2024, it launched its inaugural Thirty-Under-Thirty Awards celebrating the remarkable achievements of young professionals in the bathroom manufacturing sector. The association says the winners exemplify the passion, talent, and innovation fuelling the industry’s growth.
Additionally, the BMA is continuing its partnership with the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) to promote the Bathroom Building Blocks programme, a comprehensive training initiative. Designed for apprentices, new starters, and those refreshing their industry knowledge, the programme equips participants with the skills and insights needed to excel in their roles.
The BMA also participates in the Construction Inclusion Coalition, an initiative to widen the talent pool by ensuring the construction industry and its supply chain, such as bathroom manufacturing, appeal to people of all backgrounds.
Commenting on these efforts, Tom Reynolds, chief executive of the BMA, said: “Attracting and retaining the best talent is fundamental to the success of our industry. By partnering with top recruiters and launching initiatives like the Thirty-Under-Thirty Awards, we are actively fostering a culture of growth and development. Investing in people is not just a strategy – it’s necessary to build stronger organisations and a resilient sector.”
