One of the outstanding figures in British industry has been given a Lifetime Achievement Award by SELECT, the campaigning trade body for the electrotechnical industry in Scotland.

The award recognises that, over a long and distinguished career, Jock Simpson has been at the heart of the energy and electrical industries and his expertise, wisdom and experience have had a beneficial effect on many people’s lives.

Mr Simpson is executive chairman of the National Joint Council for the Engineering Construction Industry, a partnership between trades unions and employers, and chairman of the Scottish Joint Industry Board, a partnership between SELECT and Unite the Union.

He also has extensive experience in the energy industry, including senior roles with major organisations such as British Energy and npower.

Newell McGuiness, SELECT managing director, said: “Jock Simpson has worked tirelessly throughout his career to enhance employee-employer relations and has had to exercise the judgement of Solomon in often very testing situations.

“His skills in industrial relations, negotiation, change management and strategic planning have often been instrumental in keeping competing parties together, agreeing on difficult issues and seeking compromises.

“He has taken on heavy responsibilities, reached to the top in a variety of different areas and has always acted in the best interests of everyone working in the industry, from shop floor to boardroom.”

The award was presented by sponsor Schneider Electric, at a gathering at the Radisson Blu in the centre of Glasgow hosted by journalist Keith Aitken.

It was attended by a wide range of companies, from major electrical enterprises to local firms, illustrating the diversity and strength of Scotland’s electrical sector.

Before the formal proceedings, Mr McGuiness, who is stepping down early next year after 12 years as MD, was presented with a special award honouring his service to the organisation.

Taking the top SELECT award was a firm which was established only a year ago.

Named as Electrical Contractor of the Year, Servest Arthur Mackay Ltd was formed when facilities management services provider Servest acquired Edinburgh-based building services contractor Arthur Mackay.

The new company, which excels across a number of sectors, was also declared joint winner of the award for the Best Use of Training.

Mr McGuiness said: “This company has demonstrated that while it is firmly fixed on a growth trajectory, it is also looking after the continuing professional development interests of its thousands of staff.”

Other awards were:

Newell McGuiness added: “Each year, it is a much-anticipated pleasure to recognise the dedication, commitment and investment in the future which companies bring to this competition.

“As they do in their day-to-day business dealings, they have gone the extra mile in these awards to demonstrate that the electrical sector in Scotland is in good hands and is continuing to burnish its reputation for quality, skill and excellence.”