Iain McCaskey, Building Engineering Services Association (BESA)
Iain McCaskey
Head of Devolved Nations and South West of England
Building Engineering Services Association (BESA)

Iain has been a pivotal figure in the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) since his appointment as Head of Scotland and Northern Ireland on February 16, 2016. His strategic leadership and commitment to the industry led to a promotion in October 2020 to Head of Devolved Nations. Most recently, in January 2024, his role expanded to include the South West of England, further broadening his influence and responsibilities within the association.

In his current role, Iain serves as the key representative for BESA across all three Devolved Nations (Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales) and the South West of England. He is responsible for ensuring a consistent and robust tone of voice and approach across these diverse regions. His work involves acting as a support and advisor to members, providing critical guidance and, where necessary, directing them to appropriate internal and external resources.

Before joining BESA, Iain accumulated 15 years of valuable experience with the Federation for Industry Sector Skills & Standards. There, he held several senior positions, including Operations Director. Among his notable achievements was the creation and development of a national apprenticeship certification system in England, Scotland, and Wales. He was also operationally responsible for the advancement of employer-led vocational learning, such as Modern Apprenticeships across various sectors in Scotland.

Iain is known for his exceptional ability to build and nurture strategic partnerships, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits both members and the broader industry. His expertise in developing innovative membership engagement strategies has significantly contributed to the growth and success of BESA.

He possesses a robust skill set that includes strategic planning, project management, and a deep understanding of vocational education and training systems. His dedication to enhancing member experiences and driving sector improvements has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor and leader in the field.

Looking ahead, Iain is focused on continuing to drive membership growth and exploring new strategic partnerships that align with BESA’s mission and goals. He remains passionate about staying at the forefront of industry trends and continuously improving the member experience.

Outside of his professional endeavours, Iain is actively involved in community-building initiatives and enjoys volunteering with local non-profits. In his leisure time, he loves hiking, reading, and exploring new cultures through travel.