Executive On The Spot - Bob Trainer

Bob Trainer, Scotland Region Chairman

What is your current job and where do you work?

I work for MOD in Glasgow as the Business Support Manager in the MOD Centre's Commercial department.

How did you come to be involved with CSSC?

How long have you got? I suppose I started in 1977 when, for about a year, I organised the CSSC soccer league for the Gareloch and Loch Long club, while serving in the Clyde Submarine base at Faslane. Following a move to Rheindahlen, I became Secretary of CSSC in Germany and was instrumental in the construction of a new clubhouse.

Describe your normal week.

In a word…varied! I never seem to have a 'normal' week as I am responsible for a very wide range of activity, such as Budget, Planning, Business Continuity, Equality & Diversity, Security, Accommodation, H&S etc, etc. That is before you consider that I am Deputy Chair of DSRA, Chair of our local MOD Sports & Leisure Club as well as having my responsibilities to the Scottish Region. There is always something which needs to be dealt with in a hurry!

What skills do you need to do your job with CSSC?

My experience in the field of Planning & Budgets certainly helps, particularly as this year we have introduced a Business/Management plan into the Region's considerations for the first time. As I have a personnel background, 'people skills' have always been at the fore of my work and are equally, if not more, important now when dealing, in the main, with volunteers who always have the option of walking away if they don't agree with your viewpoint or actions you propose. I think it is also important to be aware of the bigger picture or recognise the wider aspect of an issue.

What aspect of your life do you most enjoy?

My family, first and foremost. My wife Shirley and I will, next year, celebrate 40 years of marriage and we have three grandchildren which we see a lot of. I do of course thoroughly enjoy my CSSC and DSRA work, serving the latter as D/Chair for over 15 years. Sport-wise, I enjoy golf and ten pin bowling.

What is your pet hate?

When I contact a call centre for assistance, after listening to my problem/complaint, the first thing they say is, "Can I call you Robert?" *!*!*!

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy a good adventure novel and can turn my hand to most DIY concerns and, for some reason, seem to be good at ceramic tiling!

What would you do with a million pounds?

Like most folk, I suspect, particularly those of my vintage, would ensure that at least some of it would go to our children and grandchildren. After that it is a holiday, a new car and a modest extension to our house. Could you make it £5m?

If you were ever to be on Desert Island discs, what music would you ask to take away with you?

Light classical music and anything from the 50s/60s and Rod Stewart.

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