A year ago, I joined the IOSH Nominations Committee, and looking back, it has been one of the most rewarding professional commitments I've taken on outside of my day-to-day role.
When people think about volunteering for professional bodies, they often focus on what they can give back. While that is certainly important, I've been surprised by how much I've gained from the experience as well.
One of the highlights has been the people. The committee is made up of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, industries, and professions. Despite the diversity of experience, there is a real sense of camaraderie within the team. There's always good humour, great conversation, and a shared commitment to helping IOSH attract and appoint the right people into important governance roles.
The experience has also significantly expanded my professional network. I've had the opportunity to meet talented individuals from across the health and safety profession and beyond, many of whom I would never have crossed paths with otherwise.
The work itself is fascinating. Through reviewing applications, assessing applications, and participating in interviews, I've gained valuable insight into the breadth of leadership and governance roles that support IOSH. It has also provided a unique opportunity to observe different interview techniques, recruitment approaches, and board structures across a variety of organisations.
As someone who works in recruitment, this has been particularly valuable. Recruitment is where it all begins for any organisation. The quality of people you attract and appoint has a profound impact on future success. Being involved in the nominations process allows me to continually refine my understanding of best practice and share those insights with clients, candidates, and colleagues.
Another benefit has been developing a deeper understanding of IOSH itself. Like many organisations, IOSH is navigating a rapidly changing landscape. Topics such as AI and the use of tools like ChatGPT within applications and recruitment processes are creating new challenges and opportunities. It's been incredibly interesting to see these discussions firsthand and contribute to how the organisation responds. Being part of those conversations means being part of shaping the future rather than simply observing it from the sidelines.
The committee also meets annually at The Grange, IOSH's headquarters. These meetings provide a fantastic opportunity to connect in person, strengthen relationships, and spend time with colleagues outside the formal committee environment. The meal afterwards is always a highlight and another reminder of the strong team culture that has been built.
I would also like to acknowledge the leadership of Jamie Sutherland-Pownall, who has recently stepped down from the Chair role. Over the past year, I've been impressed by the way he has guided the committee, bringing clarity, balance, and good judgment as we've worked through challenges and opportunities together. I've learnt a lot about leadership through this.
Most importantly, though, serving on the committee has given me the opportunity to give something back to a profession and an institution that have contributed so much to the health and safety community. IOSH plays a vital role in supporting the profession, and helping to identify and appoint the right people to support its future feels like a meaningful contribution.
If you've ever considered getting involved with a professional body, committee, or volunteer group, I would encourage you to explore the opportunity. You may start by thinking about what you can contribute, but you might be surprised by how much you gain in return.
For me, one year on, joining the IOSH Nominations Committee has been time incredibly well spent.
James Irwin is a Director at Irwin and Colton, a specialist health, safety and sustainability recruitment consultancy. For more information contact james.irwin@irwinandcolton.com or 01923 937 072.