An assistant branch manager based in Camden will help front a new campaign designed to showcase career opportunities and fill the skills gap in the multi-billion-pound building materials supply sector.

Jordan Payne of Lawsons Group has been chosen as a ‘face’ of the Building Materials Careers campaign, which was officially launched by national trade body BMF (Builders Merchants Federation).

Alongside sharing his own story about his career journey in the sector, Jordan attended the official launch of the campaign at the Ibstock I-Studio in London followed by the BMF’s Parliamentary Reception at the House of Commons.

The news follows Jordan’s recent win at the BMF Awards where he was named Apprentice of the Year after achieving a Distinction at Level 3 Team Leader / Supervisor.

Jordan Payne at launch of the Building Materials Careers campaign

placeholder image — Jordan Payne at launch of the Building Materials Careers campaign

As part of the Building Materials Careers campaign, Jordan will help showcase the opportunities available within the building materials sector.

He said: “Winning the Apprentice of the Year Award allowed me to see how my career can develop and potentially manage my own branch one day.

“Lawsons supported me throughout my apprenticeship, and it has given me the confidence to step up - I’ve already helped out as acting branch manager when needed.

“I’m excited to be part of the Building Materials Careers campaign to promote the value of apprenticeships and encourage people to explore opportunities in the building materials sector.”

BMF CEO John Newcomb at the launch of the Building Materials Careers campaign in London

As part of the campaign launch, Jordan attended the BMF’s Parliamentary Reception, at which member companies showcased the work they do – and latest innovations - to MPs and decision-makers.

The BMF represents a significant slice of the nation’s economy, with 1,020 merchant and supplier company members having combined sales of over £51.6bn and employing nearly 198,000 people.

BMF CEO John Newcomb said: “The building materials sector has a key role to play in delivering next generation products to support the construction of new homes, the refurbishment of the UK’s existing housing stock, and to support infrastructure projects for the future.

“A diversity of skills are needed by BMF members to deliver gains in vital areas including sustainability, innovation and delivering products that can enhance productivity out on building sites.

L-R: Building Materials Careers influencer, Jordan Payne, with Anthea Marris, Project Director of the Construction Inclusion Coalition (CIC) and BMF CEO, John Newcomb, at the launch of the Building Materials Careers programme in London

“Jordan is a key example of someone who is excelling in his work and we are extremely pleased that he is showcasing the career opportunities in the building materials sector by sharing his story and supporting the Building Materials Careers campaign.”

For more about the BMF’s Building Materials Careers campaign, visit; Building Materials Careers | Explore the Building Materials sector