What is The Hill Club and How is it Structured?

With its 10^th Anniversary fast approaching I decided to share some information about the club and its history.

The Hill Club is a unique networking organization for the UK cleaning industry, established in April 2015. It was founded following the decision by BICSc Head Office to close many of its local branches. Members of BICSc London and Home Counties branch of which I was Chairman, set up the group with the aim of fostering connections and collaboration among professionals in the cleaning and facilities management sectors. The club is named in honour of Eric Hill, founder of the British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) and the Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners.

Founding Members

The Hill Club was founded by a group of industry leaders, many of whom remain active in its operations. The founding members are:

• Phil Smith – Chairman, Managing Director of Indigo Integrated FM
• Gary Fage – Vice Chair and Treasurer, Managing Director of Janitorial Express
• Iain Houston – Founder Member, Sales Director at The Maintenance Supply Co Ltd
• Jo Long – Founder Member, Sales Director at Metsa Tissue
• Lorraine Larmen – Founder Member (no longer on the committee)
• Rob Sutherland – Founder Member (no longer on the committee)

Current Committee

The committee has evolved over the years to include new members who contribute their expertise to the club’s success. The current committee members in addition to the four remaining founders are:

Jasmin Panzid-Foster

Ross Osbourne

Roy Winters

Andy Cassie

Peter Calligeris

Sam Worden

Signature Events

The Hill Club hosts several signature events, which have become cornerstones of the UK cleaning industry calendar:

1. Summer Thames Cruise
   Held during the daytime on the first Thursday in July, this unique event offers attendees the chance to network while enjoying a cruise along the River Thames. With breathtaking views of London’s iconic landmarks, the event also raises substantial amounts of money for charity. Additionally, it provides fantastic sponsorship opportunities for industry businesses to showcase their brands.
2. Annual Golf Day
   Taking place every May, this much-loved event combines networking with a day of golf. It brings together cleaning and facilities management professionals in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.
3. Free Networking Event at the Cleaning Show
   Organized every two years on the middle day of the Cleaning Show in London, this event is free to attend and hosted at a nearby hotel within 500 meters of the Excel Centre. It offers attendees a convenient and informal networking opportunity during the industry’s flagship exhibition. Like the Thames Cruise, this event also presents excellent sponsorship opportunities for companies looking to enhance their visibility.

The Structure and Activities

In addition to these signature events, the Hill Club hosts regular quarterly gatherings. These events bring together professionals from various sectors, including cleaning contractors, janitorial suppliers, FM recruiters, washroom service providers, and industry cleaning specialists. The Hill Club is also renowned for its dedication to community impact, regularly raising funds for charitable causes through its events.

By offering a platform for collaboration, professional growth, and networking, the Hill Club has established itself as a vital resource for professionals in the cleaning and facilities management industries.