During the Scottish Roofing Awards, the handover was officially marked.

The ceremonial chain of office was exchanged in front of NFRC members and industry representatives at the Awards.

Additionally, Sharon Llewellyn, director at JPR Roofing and Flooring Ltd has been elected as vice president.

Rowlands, director of Rowlands Roofing Ltd, has more than four decades of industry experience. 

A recognised master craftsman and former winner of the International Federation for the Roofing Trade (IFD) International Roof of the Year Award, since 2018 he has served on the NFRC Board. 

Rowlands is an ex-chair of the NFRC South West Regional Committee, deputy chair of the NFRC Heritage Committee, and represents NFRC on the IFD Pitched Roofing and Training Commissions. 

McCorquodale, who is the director at Archibald McCorquodale & Son Ltd, steps down from the role after a two-year presidency during which NFRC has seen major progress in boosting its governance, strengthening member benefits, and growing engagement across its regions. 

A comprehensive governance review, such as revised regional terms of reference, the establishment of a Finance, Audit and Risk Committee, and changes to boost regional leadership arrangements, are among the achievements during McCorquodale’s presidency. 

A personal achievement has been his fundraising for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, with £60,000 raised through the generosity of NFRC Members and industry colleagues. 

McCorquodale said: “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, Rowlands discussed three priorities for his two-year presidency: protecting the roofing industry, maintaining high standards, and developing career opportunities. 

Rowlands vowed to make sure the practical challenges facing roofing businesses remain central to NFRC’s work. 

Rowlands 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. 

“We cannot protect our future without investing heavily in the next generation.”

Rowlands added: “I look forward to working alongside all of you over the next two years to make our industry stronger, safer, and more prosperous.” 

As per the tradition for incoming presidents, Rowlands’ term in the role means that NFRC will support his nominated charity, The Lighthouse Charity. 

The Lighthouse Charity is the only charity in the UK and Ireland dedicated to providing free, confidential emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing support to construction workers as well as their families. 

McCorquodale will now serve an additional couple of years on the board as immediate past president, with Rowlands taking over the presidency.