MKM chief operating officer joins BMF board advisory team

MKM Building Supplies’ chief operating officer Dave Castle has been appointed as a Board Advisor to the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF).

The appointment sees Castle return to the BMF board, where he will contribute to the organisation’s work representing builders’ merchants and suppliers across the UK and Ireland.

Castle joined MKM in 2025 as the merchant’s first chief operating officer, bringing more than 21 years’ experience in the building materials sector.

In his current role, he works with branch directors, suppliers and customers across the company’s UK network.

BMF role to support key industry issues

The BMF represents builders’ merchants and suppliers on issues including skills, training, health and safety, market intelligence and government engagement.

Castle said the appointment would allow MKM to contribute to wider industry discussions.

He said: “This is a great opportunity for MKM to strengthen our relationship with the BMF and support the important work they do for the whole industry. From training and safety to lobbying the government and much needed work raising awareness of careers in merchanting, the BMF plays a big role in supporting businesses like ours.

“Having a voice around the table also gives us the opportunity to contribute to the conversations that matter most to MKM, our people, our customers and the wider industry.”

MKM strengthens industry engagement

The appointment comes as MKM continues to expand its presence across the UK builders’ merchant sector.

Chief executive Kate Tinsley said Castle’s experience made him well placed to support the federation’s work.

She said: “Dave’s appointment is brilliant recognition for both him and MKM. There’s no denying how passionate he is about the industry and he understands exactly what matters to merchants, suppliers and customers.

“The BMF does fantastic work supporting the sector, particularly around skills, training and giving our industry a stronger voice, so we’re really pleased to see Dave take on this role and represent MKM at board level.”

Skills and training remain key priorities

The appointment comes at a time when skills development and workforce recruitment remain significant challenges across the construction supply chain.

The BMF works with members across the UK and Ireland to provide training programmes, business support, safety guidance and market insight, while representing the interests of merchants and suppliers to government and the wider construction industry.