As the managing director of his own award-winning firm, GasTech, Craig Firth joined the North Tyneside Business Forum management group in 2018, after success at the 2017 Business Awards. We talked to him about his role on the management group, his career and his hopes for the Forum.
What’s your role in the NTBF management team?
My role on the management team is to represent the construction sector should any issues in that area crop up. My background is in construction, so I’m well placed to offer advice and guidance on any projects requiring such experience.
I became a member of the Forum management team following GasTech’s successful nomination for North Tyneside Business of the Year in 2017. David Bavaird approached me and asked me to join the team as a direct result. I said yes because I think it’s important to contribute back to the local community. Plus, I feel that my expertise in growing a company from a team of one to over 50 could be useful to the Forum.
Tell us a little more about your background
I’m managing director of a North Shields business called GasTech.
I started the company back in 2005 and we supply, install and maintain energy efficient heating and cooling equipment in premises such as schools, warehouses and factories.
Outside of work I have two children, Jacob who is seven and Jack who is five. They keep me entertained and very busy. My brilliantly understanding wife Nadia has supported me with building GasTech since 2005 and we try to spend as much time with the boys as possible. Our aim is to keep them active and run their energy off either by walking on the beach or playing in the park.
Does your role on the team create connections for you in business and indeed in your life outside the Forum?
I have made some great connections within the management team both on a business and a personal level. I have been working closely with Andrew Esson on several projects with my GasTech hat on and I look forward to working with other members of the management team in the future.
Beyond the Forum I’m also a member of the NECC and Construction Excellence.
Being part of organisations like these really does help me keep my ear to the ground in the local business community, meaning I can offer help and advice to those around me as well as draw on a network of support should I need it myself.
How do you see the Forum developing in the future?
I think the Forum provides great links and networking opportunities for local SMEs and I’d like to see the event calendar developed in the future to expand the offering. The Forum definitely has a place as a hub for likeminded individuals and business owners in North Tyneside to come together, explore ideas and opportunities and possibly develop collaborations in the region.
