On Thursday 10th September Richard Kay of Green-tech, the UK’s largest supplier to the landscape industry, was voted in as the National Chairman of the BALI Board of Directors at their National Annual General Meeting, which was held online for the first time in BALI’s 48-year history. 

The British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) is the UK’s largest and most active network of landscaping professionals, with over 900 Registered members. 

Richard is the founder and Chairman at Green-tech, a BALI Registered Affiliate member and award-winning supplier to the industry with a product range of over 12,000 product lines covering tree planting, urban landscaping, soils and wildflower seed. He has a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for the landscaping industry.   

Richard takes over the role from Matt O’Conner of John O‘Conner Grounds Maintenance who now takes up the role of Immediate Past Chairman.  

BALI’s Chief Executive Wayne Grills commented: “I would like to congratulate Richard on his appointment as our National Chairman. He is a successful businessman whom, for many years, has made many industry connections through his adept knowledge, experience and strong leadership skills. My fellow board directors and I are delighted that Richard was voted onto the board in this position and I look forward to working with him in moving the Association forward over the next two years.” 

Richard will be supported by Nigel Bowcock of Registered Contractor Acre Landscapes who was made Vice Chairman and Richard Stone of Registered Contractor Bawden Managed Landscapes who will resume his role as Honorary Treasurer. 

In the role as National Chairman Richard will have the ultimate responsibility for the BALI Board fulfilling its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation.  He will work closely with Chief Executive Wayne Grills and provide support to achieve the aims of the organisation, acting as a channel of communication between the Board and staff. He will also be expected to review the skills mix of the Board, appoint, develop and encourage good working relationships and support development of the membership. 

Over the last 26 year’s Richard has successfully steered Green-tech to become the UKs largest landscape supplier. He is well known within the industry for his staunch commitment to raising the profile of landscaping, supporting innovative solutions that address both change in customer demand and environmental challenges; along with a fierce ambition and determination to bring the future generations through, helping to position the industry as an attractive and rewarding career option. 

Richard’s vast experience will be essential in his new role as BALI National Chair.  He adds,  

“I am incredibly proud to have been elected as National Chair.  It really is an honour. I’m passionate about our industry; it’s given me a fantastic career and I’m keen to see the profile raised.  BALI really does have outstanding members and with membership numbers continuing to rise it is an exciting time to be involved.  Fortunately, our industry has fared better than many throughout the Corona crisis and BALI continues to be a pillar of support for all members.  I am looking forward to continuing its good work, working with Wayne, the Board and the members, and sharing my ideas for the future to move the Association forward.” 

www.green-tech.co.uk