Column: GMA

The GMA’s Five-Year Strategy: Taking the grounds care sector into the future and beyond

The GMA has embarked on an ambitious programme of expansion and growth as it gears up to deliver its new Five-Year Strategy.

The initiative will see the association focusing on six clear priority areas to achieve three specific long-term goals. One-year delivery plans will set out short- and medium-term objectives to ensure that progress and plans are kept on track.

The GMA’s strategic plans, which were developed in 2019, were put on hold following the COVID-19 pandemic and the association diverted resources to adapt to the changing working environment by facilitating remote working and replacing long-standing face-toface events and training with online solutions.

With the brand transition from IOG to GMA now complete, the association has reviewed and reset the strategy and, since April 2022, has been building the internal capability required to deliver this on behalf of its members and the wider industry.

As well as two new directors heading communications, and commercial and events functions, the GMA has recently expanded its Pitch Advisory Service and welcomed four new employees into the membership, communications, and commercial and events teams.

The GMA recently expanded its Pitch Advisory Service

© GMA

“THIS YEAR HAS BEEN ABOUT INVESTMENT FOR THE FUTURE – IN TERMS OF PEOPLE AND OUR TECHNOLOGICAL INFRASTRUCTURE”

GMA CEO, Geoff Webb

GMA CEO Geoff Webb said: “With the continued support of our chair and board, we are investing to ensure we have the capability and infrastructure required to meet the increasingly complex needs of members and the grounds care sector.

“This year has been about investment for the future – in terms of people and our technological infrastructure. Next year will see us move from capability building to implementation as we start to promote the sector’s contribution to society and to the economy. We will build reputation, as well as support sustainable business growth and protect the interests of those working in the sector. This will help us to attract new talent and accelerate the growth of a diverse workforce.” ●