Black Isle businessman Callum Mackintosh, of Highland Hammer Hire and HHH Equipment, wins top UK trade association leadership award for youthful presidency of the Scottish Plant Owners Association
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A Highland businessman who became a Scottish trade association’s youngest-ever president was honoured yesterday at a UK awards ceremony.
Callum Mackintosh, founder of Highland Hammer Hire and HHH Equipment in Munlochy on the Black Isle, was recognised for outstanding leadership at the prestigious Trade Association Forum awards at The Brewery in central London.
In March 2021, Mr Mackintosh – then 32 – became the youngest to hold the position of president in the Scottish Plant Owners Association’s (SPOA) 70-year history.
Since then, he has set out to modernise the association and raise its profile across the country.
Awards judges said it was clear Mr Mackintosh had transformed SPOA into a business-critical trade body by increasing and diversifying membership and by encouraging young people into the industry, while building the profile of the association.
Now in its 20th year, the Trade Association Forum (TAF) Awards 2023 are supported by the UK Government’s Department of Business and Trade.
They recognise excellence, innovation and best practice among trade associations in the UK.
Mr Mackintosh said: “I am humbled to receive this award from the Trade Association Forum.
“It is a privilege to be president of the Scottish Plant Owners Association (SPOA) and, as president, I have sought to challenge the issues that matter to our members.
“This award is recognition that the SPOA is now on a national platform, ensuring that the voice of our industry is heard.”
Emily Wallace, chief executive of the Trade Association Forum and chairwoman of the judging panel, added: “Callum is the youngest-ever president of the SPOA, and in the last two years has transformed the association through inspiring leadership and relentless hard work.”
The winners of all categories can be viewed here.
