10 Questions with... Dave Wheadon
Each month we ask a cleaning industry professional the Tomorrow’s Cleaning 10 Questions. This month, we chatted to Dave Wheadon, CEO of the National Carpet Cleaners Association (NCCA).
1
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB? I was a Laboratory Technician in South Devon, and I
subsequently gained qualifications in Asphalt/Macadam and Concrete design, becoming a technologist in both. I passed my diploma in Quarry Management and Explosives design, allowing me as a Quarry Manager to design blasts and use explosives.
2
HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE CLEANING INDUSTRY? While working in Saudi Arabia, I met an acquaintance
who offered me a position with Chem Dry as a Franchise Operations Manager. I found carpet and soft furnishing care was a fascinating introduction to sophisticated cleaning techniques. The detail involved in cleaning and restoration, and the expertise and science, engaged my interest.
3 4
WHICH THREE WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
Focused, determined, honest.
IF YOU COULD VISIT ONE PLACE IN THE WORLD, WHERE WOULD YOU GO AND WHY?
My wife and I are planning to visit Japan, it’s geographically beautiful and the various islands are intriguing. I’m fascinated by Japanese culture: their profound respect and politeness are admirable, as is their approach to the values of society and family.
6 7
IF AN INTERN WERE TO START TOMORROW, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THEM?
Be on time and look presentable, listen to and learn from different people in different roles to gain a varied insight to be much better informed. Never turn down or slack on training and continually assess your value to the business.
IF YOU WON THE LOTTERY TOMORROW, HOW WOULD YOU SPEND YOUR FORTUNE?
I’d ensure my children and grandchildren were all financially secure. Then I’d start an initiative to identify and offer rescue/accommodation and resettling centre for ex- service people – for those sleeping rough who don’t want to. It’s a travesty that, after representing their country, our servicemen often end up in dire circumstances when they come home.
8 9
IF YOU COULD HOST A DINNER PARTY AND INVITE ANY PEOPLE, DEAD OR ALIVE, WHO WOULD THEY
BE AND WHY? Alex Ferguson, because he transformed Manchester United; Isambard Kingdom Brunel, an engineering genius with a legacy of so many projects still functioning today; and Alan Turing, for his skill and unswerving belief that he could decipher the German codes.
WHAT, DO YOU THINK, IS THE FUTURE OF THE CLEANING INDUSTRY?
The recent reliance on and recognition of our industry’s contribution, means that the ‘silent’ support system is finally acknowledged. The NCCA is a part of the British Cleaning Council and contributes to the cleaning industry APPG, formed to ensure our industry is formally recognised and supported going forward. This is a significant milestone of progress.
Kate Williamson, UK, NI & ROI Sales Manager at Brightwell Dispensers, asks:
10 5
HOW WOULD YOU IMPROVE THE CLEANING INDUSTRY?
The pandemic highlighted the significant shortcomings in public and governmental attitudes to the cleaning industry. We should have been recognised as frontline support workers from the start. However, as the crisis unfolded, it became apparent that the cleaning industry is an invaluable resource in our built environment. It’s lifted the veil on understanding what a vital cog we are in society and business, and we need to make the most of this opportunity.
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WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE BIGGEST LESSON TO BE LEARNT FROM THE PANDEMIC?
Ensure you have a robust business plan. No one could have foreseen the upheaval caused by the pandemic, but it’s given us an insight into future crisis planning. It underlines that we don’t need big city offices filled with employees, wasting hours of commuting time when they can be just as productive at home. We have to consider how our commercial spaces are used in future and start planning for changes now – from occupation to cleaning and maintenance regimes.
www.ncca.co.uk
Check out next month’s issue to see what Dave asked our next industry professional...
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