CSL appoints new business development director for European IoT expansion

by Featured NewsPeople

CSL names new director for European business growth

CSL has announced that Tom Montali has been named business development director to support the company’s growth strategy across Europe.

According to CSL, Montali will focus on expanding the company’s presence in new sectors and strengthening its relationships with commercial partners.

The company explained that Montali brings commercial and leadership experience from previous roles across the energy and building technology industries.

CSL outlines Montali’s commercial background

CSL reported that prior to joining the company, Montali held senior roles at Honeywell.

He led sales teams across the UK, Nordic countries and wider Europe within Honeywell’s Building Automation division.

The company said his teams delivered integrated solutions to large-scale clients using technologies across Honeywell’s building management, fire and security systems.

CSL added that Montali previously worked at E.ON, where he managed the delivery of energy solutions for enterprise customers across European markets.

Executive leadership cites customer value and growth strategy

Greville Coe, chief commercial officer at CSL, welcomed Montali to the company’s leadership team.

Coe said: “Tom’s experience in developing customer-centric strategies and leading cross-regional sales teams makes him an excellent addition to our commercial leadership.”

He continued: “His industry insight and drive for delivering value will be instrumental as we continue to scale and serve our customers across new sectors and geographies.”

CSL stated that the appointment is aligned with its strategic goals to grow and invest in leadership talent.

CSL continues focus on critical connectivity services

CSL explained that it provides managed connectivity solutions for critical infrastructure and business operations.

According to the company, it supports over 2.5 million connections through single or multi-path IoT systems across various sectors.

CSL stated that its technology is used in applications where continuous and reliable communication is required, including life-safety systems and essential business services.

CSL appoints new business development director for European IoT expansion: Summary

CSL has appointed Tom Montali as business development director.

Montali will focus on growing CSL’s presence in new sectors and regions across Europe.

He previously held senior sales and leadership roles at Honeywell.

At Honeywell, he managed teams delivering building automation, fire and security solutions.

Montali also worked at E.ON in commercial roles supporting energy solutions for enterprise clients.

CSL said his experience aligns with its strategy to expand across the IoT connectivity market.

Chief commercial officer Greville Coe welcomed the appointment in a company statement.

CSL stated it provides over 2.5 million managed IoT connections across critical sectors.

Inspectas apprentice wins Star Awards for BSL initiative and leadership

by Featured NewsPeople

West Yorkshire apprentice recognised for business and inclusion achievements

Inspectas has reported that Business and Administration Apprentice Faye Oxley has received two awards from Bradford College, recognising her work in property compliance and commitment to inclusive practice.

According to the company, Oxley was named Business Admin Subject Student of the Year and Inspirational Student of the Year at the Star Awards ceremony held on 29 April.

Inspectas explained that Oxley was nominated for her attention to detail, drive for professional growth and a project focused on incorporating British Sign Language (BSL) into the business.

Bradford College tutor Dawn Middleton said: “Faye demonstrates the ability to self-assess her work and looks to constantly stretch and challenge herself.

“Her work includes a recent British Sign Language project which demonstrates her recognition of the communication barrier, thinking outside the box and suggestions for training staff in BSL, all of which showcases her dedication and leadership qualities.

“The project not only supports Inspectas and its clients but also links to equality, diversity and inclusion which is inspirational from a young person starting out in their career.”

Inspectas apprenticeship programme supports future compliance professionals

The company said Oxley joined Inspectas in 2024 as part of its strategy to support early-career professionals in the compliance sector.

Inspectas is a West Yorkshire-based team of around 50 compliance specialists working across asbestos, fire safety, land remediation and general health and safety.

It added that Oxley is expected to complete her apprenticeship in July and has been offered a permanent position with the business.

Operations Director Fiona Lindsay said: “We had a great evening and to win not just one award but two is truly fantastic.

“We all recognise Faye’s skills, talent and commitment and know she has a bright future in our industry and we’re looking forward to seeing her progress even further within our business.”

Awards celebrate student contribution to workplace diversity

The event, organised by Bradford College, recognised students for achievements across subject areas and professional conduct.

Inspectas stated that Oxley’s BSL initiative had made a practical contribution to the company’s internal communication and inclusion practices.

The awards were presented by Bradford City Football Club players Lewis Richards and Zac Hadi, along with Bradford College representative Nicky Betteridge.

Middleton added that Oxley “exemplifies a distinction student” with a strong sense of initiative and professionalism.

Oxley reflects on her experience and career path

Speaking after the event, Oxley described the award as validation of the support received from both Inspectas and Bradford College.

Oxley said: “I am both honoured and grateful to have received these awards from Bradford College.

“The recognition means a lot to me and is a testament to having two good support systems in place from my Inspectas colleagues and my Bradford College tutor.

“An apprenticeship is a perfect career path for me because I’m experiencing the world of property compliance while learning essential business and administrative skills at college.

“I’m thriving in this environment and I’m so thankful for the opportunity to get real life industry experience and continue learning at the same time.”

Inspectas apprentice wins Star Awards for BSL initiative and leadership: Summary

Inspectas reported that Faye Oxley won two awards from Bradford College.

Oxley was named Business Admin Subject Student of the Year and Inspirational Student of the Year.

The awards were presented at Bradford College’s Star Awards event on 29 April.

Oxley received recognition for a project introducing British Sign Language at Inspectas.

She joined the company in 2024 as a Business and Administration Apprentice.

Inspectas stated she will complete her apprenticeship in July.

Oxley has been offered a permanent position at the company.

The awards were presented by local footballers and a college representative.

Inspectas and Bradford College representatives praised Oxley’s leadership and professionalism.

Oxley said she values the support from both her employer and her tutor.

Telgian opens new Denver office to expand regional fire protection services

by Featured NewsPeople

Expansion driven by demand for local support in Western US

Telgian has announced the opening of a new office in Denver, Colorado, in response to growing demand for fire protection and life safety services in the Western United States.

The company said the Denver location will serve as a regional hub to improve access to services across Colorado and neighbouring states.

According to Telgian, the decision to open the new office reflects requests from clients for more locally based expertise and quicker response times.

The firm added that this move would allow it to better support both new and existing projects with its established range of fire protection engineering and code consulting services.

Appointment of Paul Seifert as regional practice leader

Telgian confirmed that Paul Seifert has been appointed as the Regional Practice Leader to oversee the new Denver operation.

Seifert is a fire protection and life safety engineer with over seven years of experience in the field.

The company noted that he is a member of several professional bodies, including the National Fire Protection Association, the Society of Fire Protection Engineers, the National Fire Sprinkler Association, and the American Fire Sprinkler Association.

Leonard Ramo, President of Telgian Engineering & Consulting, said: “Our clients are asking for more localised support and access to expert resources as they grow and expand, and we are responding.

“Opening a Denver office and bringing Paul on board are key steps in ensuring we continue to meet – and exceed – those expectations.”

Range of services offered by the new office

Telgian stated that its Denver office will provide a full range of consultancy services related to fire safety, emergency planning, and security risk management.

The services available include fire protection engineering, building code consulting, emergency response planning, and assessments of security risks for facilities and infrastructure.

The company said these offerings are designed to support clients throughout the lifecycle of a project, from initial design through to operational compliance.

It added that having a dedicated team based in the region will help improve coordination and service delivery for complex and multi-site projects.

Denver site to act as a regional delivery hub

The new location will function as a central point for operations across the wider Western US, Telgian explained.

It noted that increased activity in the construction, manufacturing, and public service sectors had created a need for expanded fire and life safety support in the area.

The firm said that the office will play a key role in servicing regional markets with a focus on reliability and responsiveness.

Telgian added that the expansion aligns with its long-term strategy to improve geographic reach and service proximity for clients.

Telgian opens new Denver office to expand regional fire protection services: Summary

Telgian has opened a new office in Denver, Colorado.

The company said the expansion was prompted by increased client demand in the Western US.

The new site will serve as a hub for regional operations.

Paul Seifert has been appointed as Regional Practice Leader.

Seifert has over seven years of experience in fire protection and life safety engineering.

He is affiliated with NFPA, SFPE, NFSA, and AFSA.

The Denver office will offer services including fire protection engineering, code consulting, and emergency management.

Telgian said the move will support better service delivery for local projects.

It noted that clients had asked for more accessible and localised support.

The company said the site will also handle security risk consulting work.

Leonard Ramo is President of Telgian Engineering & Consulting.

He said the new office and Seifert’s appointment will help meet client expectations.

The company stated that Western US sectors such as construction and public services require expanded safety services.

Telgian plans to use the site to improve responsiveness and geographic coverage.

The firm confirmed the Denver location is already operational.

UK fire cadets take part in VE Day 80 events

by People

Fire cadets join VE Day 80 commemorations across the UK

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has reported that Fire Cadets from London Fire Brigade, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service, and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service participated in official VE Day 80 events held across the United Kingdom.

The commemorations, held from 5 to 8 May 2025, recognised the contributions of uniformed youth groups, including UK Fire Cadets, to local communities. Fire Cadets were selected to join national events in London, including a procession, royal appearances, and government-hosted celebrations.

The NFCC explained that cadets were invited in recognition of their involvement in volunteering, fundraising, and other community-focused activities.

Procession on The Mall and royal meeting

On Monday 5 May, nine Fire Cadets and four Leaders from London Fire Brigade represented the UK Fire Cadets in a uniformed youth contingent of 150 participants during the VE80 Procession.

The event was broadcast live on BBC One.

As reported by the NFCC, cadets marched down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace, where they were greeted by King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall.

NFCC stated that Fire Cadet Co-ordinator Lucy Plummer and one of her cadets were special guests in the Royal Box. Both were later interviewed by Naga Munchetty on Radio 5 Live.

Fire Cadets attend events at Downing Street and Horse Guards Parade

In the afternoon of 5 May, Fire Cadets from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service joined the Prime Minister’s VE Day 80 Street Party held at Downing Street.

On 8 May, the NFCC’s Vice Chair Rick Hylton attended the VE Day Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey on behalf of the UK fire and rescue services.

Later that evening, Fire Cadets from various regions took part in a concert held at Horse Guards Parade.

National fire cadet programme and community engagement

The NFCC noted that Fire Cadets engage in various social action programmes across the UK.

These include supporting local events, organising community fundraisers, and completing volunteering projects.

The national programme targets young people aged 13 to 17 and currently includes over 2,550 Fire Cadets across 210 units.

The NFCC explained that while early forms of youth fire services existed during World War II, the current national structure of Fire Cadets has been in place for more than 25 years.

Cadets recognised for civic participation

According to the NFCC, the inclusion of Fire Cadets in VE Day 80 activities reflects their sustained contribution to local communities.

By participating in uniformed youth programmes, Fire Cadets gain practical experience, develop personal skills, and support civic engagement.

The NFCC stated that these efforts contribute to improved confidence and capabilities among young people in the cadet programme.

UK fire cadets take part in VE Day 80 events: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) reported that UK Fire Cadets participated in VE Day 80 events held in early May 2025.

Fire Cadets from London, Essex, and Hampshire were involved.

On 5 May, London Fire Cadets marched in the VE80 Procession and were greeted by members of the Royal Family.

Lucy Plummer and one of her cadets were interviewed by Naga Munchetty on Radio 5 Live.

Essex Fire Cadets attended the VE Day 80 Street Party at Downing Street.

Rick Hylton represented the fire and rescue services at Westminster Abbey on 8 May.

Cadets also attended a concert at Horse Guards Parade later that day.

The NFCC explained that Fire Cadets engage in community activities across the UK.

The national programme includes over 2,550 cadets from 210 units.

The NFCC stated that the programme targets young people aged 13 to 17.

Fire Cadets have existed in their current form for more than 25 years.

Sharon McClure named Chair of Association for Specialist Fire Protection

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPassivePeople

Leadership transition announced by ASFP

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has confirmed the appointment of Sharon McClure as its new Chair, succeeding Clive Miles.

Clive Miles stepped down following a two-year term in which the organisation expanded its influence and membership.

Key developments during his tenure included the launch of the ASFP Office & Academy, new member workshops, and the formation of the ASFP Young Leaders Group.

Progress under Clive Miles’ tenure

ASFP reported that Clive Miles’ time as Chair focused on skills development, innovation, and digital growth within the sector.

The association explained that its increased involvement in cross-sector initiatives included contributions to the Industry Competence Steering Group and the signing of the Conflict Avoidance Pledge.

Clive Miles said: “Two years ago, I spoke of the need to embrace innovation, skills development and digital transformation.

“It’s an absolute honour to take on this role, especially in our 50th year.

“But with this honour comes a great sense of responsibility.”

Sharon McClure sets out strategic direction

In her first address as Chair, Sharon McClure set out intentions to increase collaboration across the construction industry and reaffirm the role of passive fire protection.

McClure stated: “The construction industry is too often driven by conflicting priorities.

“We must rise above commercial pressures and fragmented responsibilities.

“It’s time for passive fire protection to become a unifying force for safety, integrity, and long-term value in the built environment.”

The ASFP noted that Sharon’s appointment aligns with its goals to strengthen fire protection competence and engage stakeholders more widely.

Support from new Vice Chair Jamie O’Hagan

The ASFP has also named Jamie O’Hagan, of Structural Fireproofing Systems, as Vice Chair.

The organisation said Jamie brings more than 30 years of experience in fire protection, covering both technical and practical aspects of the sector.

The leadership team is expected to continue supporting ASFP’s engagement with industry and regulatory bodies.

Mike Ward, ASFP Managing Director, commented on the transition: “Clive has been the steady hand and driving force behind so much of our recent progress.

“His commitment to collaboration, innovation, and member value has set a strong foundation for the future.”

Sharon McClure named Chair of Association for Specialist Fire Protection: Summary

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection has named Sharon McClure as its new Chair.

She succeeds Clive Miles, who served from 2023 to 2025.

Miles’ tenure included the launch of the ASFP Office & Academy.

Other developments included the Young Leaders Group and expanded member engagement.

The ASFP took part in the Industry Competence Steering Group during this time.

The Conflict Avoidance Pledge was also signed by the organisation.

McClure called for better cross-industry collaboration on building safety.

She said passive fire protection must be treated as essential, not secondary.

Jamie O’Hagan has been appointed Vice Chair.

He brings three decades of fire protection experience.

Mike Ward praised Clive Miles’ contribution as Chair.

The ASFP stated the new leadership reflects its continued development.

2024 Fire and Emergency Services Awards: U.S. military firefighters recognised for excellence

by Featured NewsPeople

U.S. honours military firefighting excellence through annual awards

The U.S. Department of Defense has announced the winners of the 2024 Fire and Emergency Services Awards.

The Department recognised nine recipients across multiple categories, including fire departments, individual firefighters, officers and instructors, for their contributions to emergency response and mission support.

The awards were announced to coincide with International Firefighters’ Day.

According to the U.S. Department of Defense, nominees were assessed from across military branches including the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and the Defense Logistics Agency.

Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations and Environment, Robert E. Thompson, said: “Dedicated F&ES personnel sustain our defense communities through strategic planning, training, and incident response and recovery.”

Thompson added: “Their ability to continuously adapt to dynamic conditions better enables the military mission and helps safeguard the American people against catastrophic threats.”

Winning fire departments reported extensive training and emergency action

The U.S. Department of Defense stated that three fire departments were recognised for excellence in mission support and fire protection management.

Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia was named Small Fire Department of the Year. The department responded to a residential fire, rescuing three people and preserving $3 million in property value. It also hosted 130 sub-fire events and completed a confined space rescue on a submarine.

The Medium Fire Department of the Year was the 355th Civil Engineer Squadron at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona. The department handled 788 emergencies, taught 43 classes with 2,500 awarded credits and contributed to a $152,000 charity initiative through Pima County Safety Day.

In the Large Department category, the 673d Civil Engineer Squadron at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska was recognised for responding to a barracks fire and teaching 74 fire safety classes to over 1,200 people. The department also certified 63 Emergency Medical Technicians with a 100-percent pass rate.

Individual firefighters acknowledged for life-saving actions

The U.S. Department of Defense named one military and one civilian firefighter for their individual contributions to emergency response.

Senior Airman Adam Olea from Kunsan Air Base in the Republic of Korea was selected as Military Firefighter of the Year. According to the Department, Olea responded to a 1,300-acre wildfire, led a three-person fuel fire response team and supported coalition training for 111 firefighters.

Stevan Ames of Naval Station Mayport, Florida received Civilian Firefighter of the Year. Ames was the medical officer at a ship fire, treating responders and training National Guard personnel in tactical medical care. He also led EMT/paramedic recertification efforts, teaching 75 classes.

Awards highlight fire officer leadership and instructor achievements

Two fire officers and one instructor were recognised for leadership and training development.

Technical Sergeant Nathaniel Hobbs of Kunsan Air Base was named Military Fire Officer of the Year. He led 45 firefighters through 409 emergencies, coordinated a multi-agency response protocol, and managed multiple hazardous material incidents involving hydrazine.

Captain Takanori Saito of U.S. Army Garrison Japan was selected as Civilian Fire Officer of the Year. He led 44 emergency incidents with full response compliance and facilitated 83 training sessions. He also introduced interactive community demonstrations during fire prevention week.

Joseph Suddarth Jr. of Eglin Air Force Base, Florida received the Fire Service Instructor of the Year award. Suddarth led a wildfire response involving four agencies, redesigned EMT responder training and achieved a 95-percent pass rate with 171 certifications. His programme was adopted across the Air Force.

2024 Fire and Emergency Services Awards: Summary

The U.S. Department of Defense has announced the winners of the 2024 Fire and Emergency Services Awards.

The announcement was made in recognition of International Firefighters’ Day.

Nine awards were issued to departments, firefighters, officers and instructors.

The awards cover military and civilian personnel working within Department of Defense fire and emergency services.

Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay won the Small Department category.

The 355th Civil Engineer Squadron at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base won the Medium Department category.

The 673d Civil Engineer Squadron at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson received the Large Department award.

Buckley Space Force Base was recognised for its fire prevention programme.

Senior Airman Adam Olea and Stevan Ames were named Military and Civilian Firefighters of the Year.

Technical Sergeant Nathaniel Hobbs and Captain Takanori Saito received Fire Officer of the Year awards.

Joseph Suddarth Jr. was named Fire Service Instructor of the Year.

The source of all information in this article is the U.S. Department of Defense.

APS appoints Sofie Hooper as Deputy CEO to support building safety strategy

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

Appointment strengthens APS leadership in UK building safety policy

The Association for Project Safety (APS) has announced that Sofie Hooper has been appointed as Deputy CEO, according to a statement published by APS.

Hooper previously served as Head of Policy and Research at the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), an international membership body representing over 11,500 professionals.

APS stated that Hooper’s appointment is effective immediately and will support the organisation’s focus on competence, policy development and training within the building safety sector.

Sofie Hooper brings experience in UK and EU public policy

APS reported that Hooper has spent a large part of her career as a Public Policy Advisor, with roles focused on both UK and EU-level policymaking.

While at IWFM, she co-authored the report Safer people, safer homes: Building Safety Management, which APS said played a role in shaping the post-Grenfell legislative environment.

APS stated that Hooper regularly engaged with the Building Safety Regulator, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, and other policy bodies.

The organisation added that Hooper contributed to the integration of the Building Safety Alliance into early Parliamentary and Government documents ahead of the Building Safety Act 2022.

New Deputy CEO role to support APS strategic development

According to APS, the Deputy CEO position has been newly created to provide additional senior-level support as the organisation develops its policy and training strategy.

Hooper will report to CEO Andrew Leslie.

Her responsibilities will include leading on the APS competence and training schemes, contributing to policy development, and engaging with other professional bodies and business partners.

APS stated that the new role is designed to enhance the organisation’s capability to deliver on its strategic aims and meet increasing demand for expertise in building and fire regulations across the UK’s four nations.

Leadership responses to the appointment

Sofie Hooper said: “For three decades, APS has been the driving force in improving health and safety standards within the construction industry.

“I’m thrilled to be joining an organisation that continually strives to put excellence and innovation in building safety front and centre of a progressive agenda.

“I’m looking forward to engaging with APS members and our stakeholders to ensure best practice in building safety is not just vigorously upheld but proactively sought after.”

APS CEO Andrew Leslie said: “APS is delighted to welcome Sofie to the APS team in the newly created post of Deputy CEO.

“Sofie has a proven track record within the built environment and will add considerable knowledge and experience to the APS senior management team, and in particular provide essential additional support and expertise to enable both the President and CEO to deliver the APS strategy.”

APS President Mark Snelling added: “APS is extremely privileged to have Sofie join us as Deputy CEO.

“Sofie is highly respected within the industry and has been closely connected with the changes that have followed the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower.

“I look forward to working with Sofie and Andrew our CEO to ensure the APS both supports our members and drives the change that is required to ensure that the tragedy at Grenfell Tower is not repeated.”

APS appoints Sofie Hooper as Deputy CEO to support building safety strategy: Summary

The Association for Project Safety (APS) has appointed Sofie Hooper as Deputy CEO.

The announcement was made by APS on 7 May 2025.

Hooper previously served as Head of Policy and Research at the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management.

She has worked extensively in public policy in the UK and EU.

While at IWFM, she co-authored the report Safer people, safer homes: Building Safety Management.

She worked closely with the Building Safety Regulator and other policy bodies.

APS stated she contributed to early policy input for the Building Safety Act 2022.

In her new role, she will report to CEO Andrew Leslie.

She will oversee policy development, training schemes, and stakeholder engagement.

APS said the role supports delivery of its building safety strategy.

Her appointment takes effect immediately.

Mira Leinonen appointed as rescue director for Päijät-Häme welfare region, Finland

by Featured NewsPeople

Päijät-Häme confirms appointment of Mira Leinonen as new rescue director

Pelastustieto has reported that Mira Leinonen has been appointed as the new director of the rescue services in the Päijät-Häme welfare region in Finland.

She will replace Jari Hyvärinen, the first to hold the post, who is retiring in May.

Leinonen will begin her new role on 1 August at the earliest.

Mira Leinonen’s background in rescue and public safety roles

According to Pelastustieto, Leinonen holds a Master of Science in Engineering and a degree in rescue operations.

She has completed the Officer Development programme in strategic management organised by the European Fire Chiefs’ Association FEU in the Netherlands.

She has also studied management and organisational communication at the University of Tampere.

Leinonen is currently the head of the rescue service unit and chief rescue inspector at the Regional State Administrative Agency of Southern Finland.

She has also worked for the National Police Board, the Western and Inner Finland AVI, and the Finnish Railways Agency/Trafi.

Second woman to serve as rescue director in Finnish history

Pelastustieto noted that Leinonen will become the second woman to hold a rescue director position in Finland.

The first was Piia Vähäsalo, who served as rescue director in Jokilaakso.

Leinonen has also written about rescue services as a columnist for Pelastustieto for over ten years.

Focus on staff well-being and national safety development

Leinonen told Pelastustieto: “The professional operations of the Päijät-Häme rescue department have impressed me while I was acting as a supervising authority.

“They do things with passion, but they don’t make a big deal out of their operations.

“I was also attracted by the fact that the recruitment announcement mentioned occupational well-being as the most important task of the director.”

Leinonen added: “Many people probably know me, so I’m sure I’ll fit in well with the other rescue leaders.”

Leinonen stated: “He considers taking care of the well-being of his staff to be the most important task of a manager. He wants to be open and approachable.”

Leinonen continued: “He says that he will take a stand as a rescue director in the rescue service when necessary, but he will not become a boss. Issues related to well-being are something he particularly wants to maintain in the rescue service nationwide.”

She is also involved in a new occupational safety project and has expressed interest in having Päijät-Häme serve as a pilot site for the initiative.

Mira Leinonen appointed as rescue director for Päijät-Häme welfare region: Summary

Mira Leinonen has been appointed as the new rescue director of the Päijät-Häme welfare region in Finland.

She will replace Jari Hyvärinen, who is retiring in May.

Her start date will be no earlier than 1 August.

The information was reported by Pelastustieto.

Leinonen holds a Master of Science in Engineering and a degree in rescue operations.

She has studied at the University of Tampere and participated in the FEU strategic management programme.

Her current role is head of the rescue service unit and chief rescue inspector at the Regional State Administrative Agency of Southern Finland.

She has previously worked for the National Police Board, AVI, and Trafi.

She has also written rescue service columns for Pelastustieto for over ten years.

She is the second woman to be appointed as a rescue director in Finland.

The first was Piia Vähäsalo in Jokilaakso.

Leinonen has prioritised staff well-being in her leadership plans.

She is also contributing to a new occupational safety project.

Vox Ignis strengthens UK sales team with Richard Gray appointment

by Featured NewsPeople

Appointment made to grow UK fire systems business

Vox Ignis has announced the appointment of Richard Gray as its new Regional Sales Manager for the South of the United Kingdom.

The company confirmed the news following the retirement of former manager Nick Teahan.

Vox Ignis stated that Gray officially joined at the end of April and will focus on increasing sales and supporting customers across the southern region.

According to Vox Ignis, Gray will be responsible for promoting its range of products including the Unicorn Voice public address and voice alarm (PAVA) system, Lexicomm emergency voice communication (EVC), AssistCall safety alarms, and InEvac lockdown systems.

Richard Gray brings industry experience to the role

Vox Ignis explained that Gray is based in Portsmouth and has nearly 20 years of experience in the UK fire industry.

The company added that he has held senior design and sales roles with multiple installers and distributors and has specific expertise in EN54-16 compliant voice alarm systems.

Jeremy Kirkup, Sales Director at Vox Ignis, said: “We’re very happy to welcome Richard to the company. He is a very well-respected professional with vast experience and has fitted in well.

“We are growing quickly with sales across our portfolio, especially for our Unicorn Voice integrated PAVA and EVC system, and Richard is quickly proving a real asset.

“Our product launch programme for 2025 is already full and these are exciting times for everyone who deals with Vox Ignis.”

Richard Gray outlines plans in new role

Richard Gray said: “I’m delighted to join Vox Ignis. I have known or worked with them for many years in previous roles and it’s a real privilege to join a thriving, independent UK manufacturer at the next stage in its growth.

“Their current portfolio is very well regarded and requested. New products such as Unicorn Voice, InEvac and AssistCallPro mean that there is a new Vox Ignis solution for existing and future customers alike.”

Vox Ignis continues UK expansion

Vox Ignis stated that it manufactures its systems in the UK and supplies products under its own name and through OEM partners globally.

Its portfolio covers voice alarm systems, emergency voice communication, lockdown systems and assistance call solutions.

The company said its technologies are used daily to support building safety for millions of people worldwide.

Vox Ignis strengthens UK sales team with Richard Gray appointment: Summary

Vox Ignis has appointed Richard Gray as its new Regional Sales Manager for the South of the UK.

The company confirmed the move followed the retirement of former manager Nick Teahan.

Gray joined at the end of April.

Vox Ignis said Gray will support sales growth and customer service across southern UK regions.

He will focus on promoting Unicorn Voice PAVA, Lexicomm EVC, AssistCall and InEvac systems.

Gray is based in Portsmouth and has almost 20 years of experience in the UK fire industry.

He previously held senior roles with installers and distributors.

Jeremy Kirkup, Sales Director at Vox Ignis, welcomed Gray’s appointment.

Gray said it was a privilege to join the UK manufacturer at this stage in its growth.

Vox Ignis stated that it designs and manufactures its systems in the UK.

The company sells products globally under the Vox Ignis brand and OEM partnerships.

Its systems include voice alarms, emergency communication and assistance call technology.

John Butler appointed as new president of Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

John Butler becomes first FSEDI graduate to lead Metro Chiefs

Former International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) President John Butler has been appointed president of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association, according to the IAFC.

Butler, who serves as Chief of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in Virginia, is the first graduate of the Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI) to be selected for the Metro Chiefs presidency.

The Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association operates as a joint section of the IAFC and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Metro Chiefs includes departments from North America, Australia and beyond

The IAFC explained that the Metro Chiefs Association brings together senior officers from large fire departments across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia and other countries.

According to the IAFC, the association provides a platform for leadership development, operational collaboration and peer engagement across metropolitan fire services.

It stated that the Metro Chiefs section plays a central role in shaping education and strategic direction in the wider fire sector.

Education and research partnerships central to the association’s mission

The IAFC reported that the Metro Chiefs Association maintains longstanding relationships with safety research bodies and academic institutions.

It noted that these include FM, the Firefighter Safety Research Institute (UL), the Fire Protection Research Foundation and multiple universities.

The IAFC stated that such partnerships contribute to the association’s goal of supporting evidence-based leadership and decision-making in urban fire services.

Butler to guide policy direction during one-year term

The IAFC confirmed that Butler’s term as president will last one year.

It stated that he will chair meetings, coordinate committees and contribute to the delivery of internal and external objectives.

The IAFC added that Butler’s presidency comes at a time when many large fire departments are managing structural change and operational demands.

John Butler appointed as new president of Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association: Summary

John Butler has been named president of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association.

The announcement was made by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC).

Butler is currently Chief of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in Virginia.

He is a past president of the IAFC.

He is also the first Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI) graduate to lead the Metro Chiefs.

The Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association is a section of the IAFC and NFPA.

It includes senior fire officials from the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia and other nations.

The IAFC reported that the association partners with research bodies and universities.

These include FM, UL’s Firefighter Safety Research Institute and the Fire Protection Research Foundation.

The IAFC said Butler will serve a one-year term as president.

His responsibilities include policy guidance, committee leadership and strategic coordination.