Comment by BVAA CEO Rob Bartlett

70 Years? That’s quite a shift Ma’am.

This weekend, the UK will celebrate the Platinum Anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s accession to the throne. That’s longer than most readers of this piece will have been alive! 

It’s also likely never to be repeated, certainly not this century and likely not even this millennium. 

Most of us older folk will remember the leaving-do for a colleague who hit 45 years’ service, perhaps even the magical 50. But going forward, ‘jobs for life’ are likely a thing of the past. While in general that’s probably a good thing, broadening horizons etc, it’s also in many respects, unfortunate. 

Some careers require the amassing of extensive experience to be able to do well.  In other jobs, having access to that experience through the others around you can be just as valuable. I know in my association work I was blessed with the extensive experience of those who went before, and the greying Sages all around me. I am, I think, the product of tiny little bits of every person I’ve ever worked with and alongside, in effect ‘standing on the shoulders of giants.’ 

When Her Majesty finally hangs up her crown, the UK will have a hugely experienced understudy ready to carry her beacon forward, and a bright young thing in the wings quietly learning his trade. Not a bad legacy. One we should all emulate.

Published: 31st May 2022