Meet The Team: Nigel Lay

"My working career started in the retail sector and then into external sales, sales management and sales training. My introduction to the cleaning industry was as a Franchise Development Manager for Autosmart.

I entered the carpet cleaning industry when I bought a Cleaning Doctor franchise 15 years ago. My passion for this industry led me to become IICRC and Woolsafe Certified and I joined the NCCA Board of Directors.My first role was as Events Director and the annual Carpet Cleaners Carnival was launched at Wicksteed Park. From the initial success of the event, it has been developed to its present format of the WCP show.  I then took on responsibility as Admin Director and helped accomplish various milestones such as ISO9001, and the introduction of the staff pension scheme. I also represented the Association on the British Cleaning Council and took on the liaison role with Trustmark. We also saw the employment of a full-time CEO Dave Wheadon, who now also oversees the administration function as part of his varied role.

During my time as Admin Director I was honoured to serve the members as President and on handing over the presidency last year to Allan Simmons asked if I could take on the role of Standards & Fair Trading Director. Anyone that knows me is aware that honesty, integrity and ethics are the primary driving force on a personal basis and the strength behind taking on this position. I deal with a variety of issues, from consumer complaints where I will be the arbitrator between the two parties to find a resolution.

My main concern is the illegal use of the NCCA Intellectual Property Rights ie Logo misuse, false claims, T&C’s  that do meet the legal requirements  etc and I need the assistance of the membership to help point out companies or individuals that are “passing off” so that I may take action on behalf of the Association and its members. I also represent the NCCA at Trustmark and believe that now the new board are elected and funds have been made available by the government that Trustmark will help us to raise industry standards.

If any members identify our IP Rights being infringed could you in the first instance please notify the office who will log the details and then inform us so that we can take action."