London Fire Brigade donates firefighting equipment to Ukraine in national support effort

by Featured NewsPeople

UK support convoy delivers thousands of firefighting tools to Ukraine

Seven firefighters from London Fire Brigade have returned from Poland after participating in the largest UK fire service-led convoy to deliver life-saving firefighting equipment to Ukraine.

According to London Fire Brigade, more than 140 folding roof ladders, decommissioned Detection, Identification and Monitoring (DIM) vans, breathing apparatus equipment, overalls and protective goggles were included in the donation.

The convoy involved over 100 UK fire and rescue personnel. It marked the eighth such operation since the start of the conflict in Ukraine in 2021.

Equipment gathered by London Fire Brigade teams for transport

In preparation for the convoy, teams from London Fire Brigade’s International Search and Rescue, Operations Support Centre and Technical Support Services co-ordinated to load the equipment onto three articulated lorries.

The trip was part of a wider collaboration between fire and rescue services across the UK.

The Brigade confirmed that this operation delivered 15,000 pieces of equipment to support Ukrainian emergency services.

London Fire Brigade expresses support for Ukrainian counterparts

Assistant Commissioner Operational Resilience and Control Patrick Goulbourne said: “The Brigade is proud to support this crucial initiative. It helps ensure that our Ukrainian colleagues are equipped and ready to respond safely in an emergency.”

Goulbourne added: “I’m also grateful that this equipment which has helped keep Londoners, and people across the UK safe, will now see a second life in service of the Ukrainian people.”

FIRE AID and partners maintain long-term support for Ukraine

David O’Neill MBE, FIRE AID Chair and former London Fire Brigade officer, also supported the convoy.

He said: “We continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine; our fire family is committed to giving ongoing support and a lifeline in their time of need.”

He added: “The statistics are staggering; more than 100 firefighters have lost their lives, with hundreds injured. Our work is far from done. We remain committed to Ukraine and will continue to offer our unwavering support and assistance to their firefighters risking their lives daily.”

London Fire Brigade donates firefighting equipment to Ukraine in national support effort: Summary

Seven London Fire Brigade firefighters took part in a UK-wide convoy delivering firefighting equipment to Ukraine.

More than 140 roof ladders, two DIM vans and thousands of items of kit were transported.

The convoy involved over 100 UK fire personnel and delivered 15,000 items to Ukrainian firefighters.

This was the eighth convoy since 2021 and the largest organised by UK fire services.

London Fire Brigade worked with UK Government, National Resilience, UK ISAR, FIRE AID, NFCC and the Fire Industry Association.

David O’Neill MBE of FIRE AID said more than 100 Ukrainian firefighters have died and 431 have been injured.

Over 400 fire stations and 1,700 vehicles have been destroyed since the start of the conflict.

The donated equipment will support ongoing emergency operations in Ukraine.

IOSH appoints new Chair and four trustees to its Board

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyPeople

IOSH confirms leadership changes with UK-based Chair appointment

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has announced that Ruth Boumphrey will become Chair of its Board of Trustees on 27 May 2025.

Boumphrey currently serves as Chief Executive of Lloyd’s Register Foundation and brings experience in research, development and regulation.

She will succeed Bobby Chakravarthy, who has acted as interim Chair since Professor Peter Bonfield stepped down in 2024 to take up a UK Government appointment.

Boumphrey holds additional roles as a Non-executive Director of the UK Government’s Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (Cefas) and as a Commissioner for the National Preparedness Commission.

She said: “I’m delighted to be the next Chair of IOSH’s Board of Trustees, and look forward to working with IOSH and its members around the world in delivering its vision of a safe and healthy world of work.

“This vision is very close to my heart and aligns with our mission at Lloyd’s Register Foundation, so I hope to bring and share knowledge, networks and insights that help amplify IOSH’s impact globally.”

IOSH adds four new trustees to Board

Alongside the appointment of Boumphrey as Chair, four new trustees have also joined the IOSH Board.

Arlette Anderson and Sonia Whiteley have been named as member trustees, while David Auger and Stuart Stockley take up positions as independent trustees.

Anderson is a Chartered Fellow of IOSH and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment. Her previous work has focused on cultural change in multinational organisations. She has served on IOSH’s Performance and Development Committee.

Whiteley, also a Chartered IOSH Fellow, is Vice-Chair of the Essex Branch. She has over 20 years’ experience in occupational safety and health and is currently Head of Health and Safety at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

Independent trustees bring business and industry experience

David Auger joins the Board as an independent trustee following a 35-year career in finance.

He is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and has held senior roles in manufacturing companies. His previous posts include Chief Finance Officer and Board Advisor to a global shipping group.

Stuart Stockley also joins as an independent trustee. He has over 20 years of experience in senior positions within the building materials industry across the UK and Europe.

His background includes work in commercial, operational, sales and marketing, category management and e-commerce roles.

Board transition marks the end of current trustees’ terms

The announcement also marks the conclusion of terms for three long-serving trustees: Simon Hatson, John Green and David Blower.

IOSH extended its thanks to the departing members, as well as to Bobby Chakravarthy for his service as interim Chair.

Chakravarthy will remain on the Board as an independent trustee once Boumphrey assumes the role of Chair.

BSIF CEO Alan Murray honoured with SHE Awards 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

Award recognises decades of service to UK safety and health sector

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has reported that its Chief Executive Officer, Alan Murray, has been presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Safety & Health Excellence (SHE) Awards 2025.

The award was given during a ceremony at the VOX Conference Centre in Birmingham attended by over 700 industry professionals.

According to BSIF, the award recognises Murray’s decades-long contribution to the UK’s safety and health sector and comes ahead of his planned retirement later in the year.

Murray will take up the position of Executive Chairman of BSIF following his departure as CEO.

Alan Murray’s leadership and career history

Murray joined BSIF in 2014 following a career in senior commercial roles in the safety and health sector.

He previously worked with Scott Safety and Kimberly-Clark, where he supported the development of workwear and protective clothing alongside existing paper-based products.

Earlier in his career, Murray held a leadership role at the London Rubber Company, helping develop hand protection products under the Durex and Marigold brands.

BSIF stated that Murray’s leadership had supported membership growth and increased influence for the organisation across the UK.

Murray’s contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic

BSIF noted Murray’s involvement in managing safety equipment supply standards during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under his leadership, the Federation supported the use of the Registered Safety Supplier Scheme to help ensure that personal protective equipment (PPE) supplied to workers met appropriate UK compliance requirements.

Murray also served as President of the European Safety Federation from 2019, completing two terms, and was named Honorary President of Safety Groups UK in 2024.

Industry response and future role

Chairman of BSIF, John Gill, commended Murray for his leadership and lasting impact on the organisation and the broader industry.

Gill said: “Alan has been instrumental in guiding BSIF to the influential position it holds today.

His unwavering commitment to safety, integrity, and standards has ensured our members not only thrive but serve the nation with products and services that truly protect lives.”

He added: “The Lifetime Achievement Award is a fitting recognition of a career dedicated to making the UK one of the safest places to work in the world.”

BSIF stated that the Federation and its members welcomed Murray’s transition into the role of Executive Chairman and expressed appreciation for his continued guidance.

BSIF CEO Alan Murray honoured with SHE Awards 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award: Summary

Alan Murray, CEO of the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF), has received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Safety & Health Excellence (SHE) Awards.

The event was held at the VOX Conference Centre in Birmingham with over 700 attendees.

Murray is set to retire later this year and will become Executive Chairman of BSIF.

His career includes roles at Scott Safety, Kimberly-Clark, and London Rubber Company.

He joined BSIF in 2014.

During his tenure, BSIF implemented measures to ensure PPE compliance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Murray served two terms as President of the European Safety Federation and was appointed Honorary President of Safety Groups UK in 2024.

BSIF Chairman John Gill highlighted Murray’s role in expanding the Federation’s influence.

The organisation stated it looks forward to Murray’s continued involvement in his upcoming position.

NFCC Career Pathways provides guidance for UK fire service careers

by Breaking NewsPeopleTraining

NFCC introduces new tool to support fire and rescue service careers

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has announced the launch of NFCC Career Pathways, a new resource designed to help individuals understand and access careers in the United Kingdom’s fire and rescue service.

According to the NFCC, the platform aims to provide clarity about the variety of roles available in the sector, from operational to support functions.

It is designed to benefit those looking to start their careers, change direction, or develop their current roles.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said: “The NFCC Career Pathways are about giving our people real clarity and making sure everyone can see the opportunities open to them, whether that’s progressing within their current role or transforming their career by moving into a completely new area of their service.”

Resource designed for current and prospective fire service employees

The Career Pathways initiative provides role-specific information and tools tailored for individuals at different stages of their careers.

This includes information for newcomers, personal development planning tools, and leadership development resources.

According to the NFCC, the structure recognises that career development is not always linear. It promotes lateral movement and upskilling, encouraging users to explore options based on their own interests and abilities.

The tool also directs users to their local fire and rescue service for the most relevant and accurate information about employment opportunities.

Leadership and sector-wide input shaped the project

NFCC said the Career Pathways pages were developed in collaboration with fire and rescue professionals across the UK and with input from external stakeholders unfamiliar with the sector.

Wayne Bowcock, NFCC Leadership Development Strategic Lead and Chief Fire Officer for Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “This work has been shaped by colleagues from across the sector, and with the advice of external stakeholders with limited or no experience of the Fire and Rescue Sector.”

He added: “It reflects a shared commitment to making career development more transparent, accessible, and inclusive.”

Online platform showcases real-life career journeys

The online resource includes first-hand accounts from individuals working in various parts of the UK fire and rescue service. These career journeys aim to give insight into progression opportunities and the variety of roles within the sector.

NFCC stated that the inclusion of real-life stories reflects the organisation’s emphasis on representation and diversity.

The stories demonstrate how people from different backgrounds have contributed to the sector in different ways.

The NFCC said the platform will evolve in response to sector needs and is intended to serve both new recruits and existing staff.

NFCC Career Pathways provides guidance for UK fire service careers: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has launched NFCC Career Pathways, a resource designed to provide information about careers in the United Kingdom’s fire and rescue service.

The platform includes tools and guidance for both new recruits and current employees. It covers entry-level roles, departmental overviews, personal development planning, and leadership development.

It also features personal career stories to highlight the diversity of roles and individuals in the service.

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said the resource aims to bring clarity and flexibility to career planning.

Wayne Bowcock of the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service said the project reflects a shared commitment to improving transparency and accessibility in career development.

The resource has been developed with sector-wide input and directs users to their local fire and rescue service for job-related information.

The platform is designed to evolve based on the needs of the sector.

Vladimir Zrnic appointed Global Portfolio Manager at Advanced

by Featured NewsFire DetectionPeople

Leadership change strengthens Advanced’s product development focus

Advanced has reported that Vladimir Zrnic has been appointed Global Portfolio Manager within its Products team.

Zrnic previously led European sales for Advanced for seven years.

According to Advanced, he was involved in developing customer relationships across Europe and tailoring fire safety solutions to a variety of sectors.

The company stated that in his new role, Zrnic will contribute to shaping the organisation’s product portfolio by using his technical background and industry knowledge.

Zrnic moves from European sales to product leadership

Advanced stated that Zrnic’s transition marks a shift from a regional sales focus to a global product management role.

The company described his previous work in sales as being driven by technical insight and customer engagement.

Zrnic said: “This new opportunity allows me to combine my technical and market knowledge to help shape Advanced’s future offerings. I’m excited to play a central role in ensuring we continue to develop innovative solutions that meet the needs of our customers and partners globally.”

Technical expertise to inform future offerings

According to Advanced, Zrnic will be responsible for aligning product development with global market demands.

The company said that this appointment is part of its broader strategy to bring customer feedback and technical insight directly into product planning.

Zrnic added: “I’d like to thank everyone I’ve worked with during my time in European sales, and I look forward to continuing to collaborate in my new capacity.”

Internal progression at Advanced

Advanced stated that this role change reflects its approach to internal development and strategic alignment.

The company said that Zrnic’s move is intended to strengthen how product strategies are developed and delivered.

No additional changes to the Products team structure were announced at this time.

Vladimir Zrnic appointed Global Portfolio Manager at Advanced: Summary

Advanced has announced the appointment of Vladimir Zrnic as its new Global Portfolio Manager. He previously led European sales for seven years.

In his new position, Zrnic will focus on product development, drawing on his technical and market knowledge.

According to Advanced, the role is designed to align products with customer requirements globally.

Zrnic said he is looking forward to contributing to the company’s future offerings and thanked colleagues he worked with in his previous role.

The company stated that this change supports its strategy of incorporating technical insight into product planning

Dr Lori Moore-Merrell joins FireDome advisory board to support wildfire defence system

by Featured NewsPeople

FireDome appoints Dr Lori Moore-Merrell to its advisory board

FireDome has announced that Dr Lori Moore-Merrell, former United States Fire Administrator, has joined its advisory board.

As reported by FireDome, Dr Moore-Merrell brings more than 30 years of experience in public safety leadership.

She has worked in senior roles across federal government and international organisations, specialising in strategic planning, emergency response, big data analytics, and translating fire safety research into policy.

Wildfire system based on defence technologies

FireDome is developing an autonomous system to defend against wildfires using technology based on Israel’s Iron Dome air defence system.

The company’s approach involves two main elements.

A mechanical launcher deploys fire retardant capsules to build a barrier against spreading wildfires.

Simultaneously, AI-powered computer vision identifies and extinguishes spot fires started by embers that pass the barrier.

The solution is designed to operate independently of water and power infrastructure and is intended for use in remote or off-grid locations.

Dr Moore-Merrell highlights potential benefits to US communities

In a statement, Dr Moore-Merrell said: “I’m deeply impressed with FireDome’s innovative approach and the remarkable progress the team has achieved thus far.

“I believe U.S. communities, policy makers, property owners, utility officials, and fire chiefs will recognize FireDome as a transformative technology that can significantly enhance wildfire protection.

“Fully implemented, FireDome will provide large scale wildfire defense solutions and ensure community resilience and sustainability in the years ahead.”

Her previous work includes advising senior staff at the White House and working with cabinet officials and industry leaders to improve firefighter operational practices.

Advisory board includes international expertise

Dr Moore-Merrell joins other members of FireDome’s advisory board, including Seth Schalet, CEO of the Santa Clara County FireSafe Council, Brig.

Gen. (Ret) Pinhas Yungman of Israel’s defence sector, Gabriel Gross, a parametric insurance specialist based in France, and Lior Libman, an entrepreneur with expertise in artificial intelligence and high-growth startups.

FireDome CEO and co-founder Gadi Benjamini said: “Dr. Moore-Merrell’s deep knowledge of fire science, emergency response, and data-driven risk assessment aligns perfectly with FireDome’s mission to create an innovative, autonomous wildfire defense solution.

“Her leadership experience will be instrumental in helping us bring a practical and effective fire prevention system to market and fulfill FireDome’s vision of enhancing community safety from wildfires.”

Dr Lori Moore-Merrell joins FireDome advisory board to support wildfire defence system: Summary

FireDome has appointed Dr Lori Moore-Merrell to its advisory board.

Dr Moore-Merrell is the former United States Fire Administrator and has more than 30 years of experience in emergency response, policy development, and public safety data analysis.

She has advised at the highest levels of government and worked internationally on fire safety issues.

FireDome is developing an autonomous wildfire defence system that uses a mechanical launcher to deploy fire retardant and AI-powered technology to detect and extinguish embers.

The system operates without the need for local power or water infrastructure.

FireDome’s advisory board also includes experts from defence, insurance, technology, and public safety sectors.

The company is collaborating with initial users to test and improve the system.

FireDome aims to offer large-scale wildfire defence capability through automated, data-supported technologies.

Nathan Waugh appointed to lead Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East

by Breaking NewsEventsMiddle East - Breaking NewsMiddle East - EventsPeople

Messe Frankfurt Middle East confirms leadership appointment

Messe Frankfurt Middle East has announced the appointment of Nathan Waugh as Portfolio Director, responsible for overseeing Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.

Waugh’s appointment follows the reported success of the 2025 editions of both events.

Intersec 2025 welcomed 1,209 exhibitors and 47,300 visitors.

Light + Intelligent Building Middle East recorded a 10 percent increase in attendance to 15,948 visitors.

According to Messe Frankfurt Middle East, Waugh will be responsible for supporting continued development across both exhibitions.

Nathan Waugh brings two decades of industry experience

Nathan Waugh has more than 20 years of experience in the exhibitions sector across the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

Before joining Messe Frankfurt Middle East, he served as Portfolio Director at Capital Events, part of the ADNEC Group.

In that role, he managed 12 events across several industries, including the security sector.

Waugh now assumes a role that includes oversight of events positioned within the safety, security, lighting and building technology sectors.

Senior leadership comments on appointment

Ted Bloom, CEO of Messe Frankfurt Middle East, welcomed Waugh’s appointment.

Bloom said: “We are delighted to welcome Nathan to Messe Frankfurt Middle East as our new Portfolio Director.

“With over two decades of experience in the events and exhibitions industry, Nathan brings invaluable expertise and a deep understanding of the security, safety, and technology sectors.

“His proven track record in driving strategic growth and delivering world-class exhibitions will be instrumental as we continue to elevate Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East to new heights.

Nathan’s leadership will be pivotal in strengthening our position as a global leader and shaping the future of these flagship events.”

Waugh said: “I am excited to have joined Messe Frankfurt Middle East to head up Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.

“These events are both world-class platforms renowned for innovation, collaboration, and business growth, and the opportunity to lead the team to further build on these credentials is one I relish.

“I’ve been lucky to join a fantastic, passionate team, and I look forward to working alongside them to further grow and develop these events.

“My goal is to create new opportunities, drive industry progress, and deliver exceptionally curated experiences that cater to the needs of our exhibitors, visitors, and stakeholders.”

Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East 2026

The 27th edition of Intersec will take place from 12 to 14 January 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The event will take place under the patronage of His Highness Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

It will feature participation from global leaders, policymakers, investment entities and private sector partners.

Light + Intelligent Building Middle East will be held alongside Intersec 2026.

The event will include conference sessions and workshops focused on lighting and building technologies.

Nathan Waugh appointed to lead Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East: Summary

Messe Frankfurt Middle East has appointed Nathan Waugh as Portfolio Director for Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.

Waugh has more than 20 years of experience in the events industry.

He most recently held the role of Portfolio Director at Capital Events, where he managed 12 exhibitions.

Intersec 2025 hosted 1,209 exhibitors and 47,300 visitors.

Light + Intelligent Building Middle East had 15,948 attendees, marking a 10 percent increase on the previous year.

The 27th edition of Intersec will take place from 12 to 14 January 2026 in Dubai.

The event will be co-located with Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.

Waugh said he looks forward to working with the team to grow the events and create opportunities for industry stakeholders.

Sarah Dixon appointed as CEO of Compliance Group in the UK

by Breaking NewsPeople

Compliance Group appoints new CEO to lead UK operations

Compliance Group has announced the appointment of Sarah Dixon as its new Chief Executive Officer.

As reported by Compliance Group, Dixon will take over leadership responsibilities across the organisation’s operations in the United Kingdom.

Dixon previously held the position of Managing Director for Johnson Controls’ fire and security businesses in the UK and Ireland.

Sarah Dixon brings 25 years of experience across compliance sectors

According to Compliance Group, Dixon has worked in compliance-focused industries for more than two decades.

Her experience spans field operations, commercial leadership, and executive management roles across sectors including fire safety, security, lifts, escalators and access systems.

She has managed businesses ranging from 50 to 2,000 employees and has led the successful completion and integration of over a dozen acquisitions.

Board and CEO statements on new leadership direction

Mark Davies, Chairman of Compliance Group, commented on the appointment: “I’m delighted to welcome Sarah as our new CEO.

“She is a visionary leader known for her ability to accelerate growth and build high performing teams.

“Sarah joins us at an exciting time as we further strengthen our mission to be the UK’s most highly regarded compliance group, providing high quality fire safety, electrical compliance and water hygiene services to all our clients, delivered with technical excellence by our outstanding teams and with leading-edge technology.”

Dixon also shared her response to the new role: “I am honoured and excited to join the team at Compliance Group.

“I look forward to working closely with the board, leadership team, and employees to drive the next chapter, delivering exceptional value to our customers, and building upon the strong foundation that has been laid.”

Background of Compliance Group’s operations

Compliance Group was established in 2019 and operates across fire, electrical and water compliance sectors in the UK.

Its model involves specialist divisions that provide services tailored to regulatory requirements in each area.

The organisation serves sectors such as education, healthcare, care homes, local authorities, retail, leisure, media and more.

Sarah Dixon appointed as CEO of Compliance Group in the UK: Summary

Compliance Group has appointed Sarah Dixon as its Chief Executive Officer.

Dixon was previously Managing Director for Johnson Controls’ fire and security businesses in the UK and Ireland.

She has more than 25 years of experience across fire safety, security, lift and access sectors.

Dixon has overseen teams of various sizes and led more than 12 acquisitions.

Mark Davies, Chairman of Compliance Group, welcomed the appointment, citing her leadership and team-building capabilities.

Dixon said she looks forward to delivering continued value to clients.

Compliance Group was founded in 2019 and provides integrated safety and regulatory compliance services across the fire, electrical and water sectors.

The company operates through specialist divisions and works with clients in sectors including education, healthcare, care homes, local authorities, retail and more.

“I am ready to lead”: UK fire leadership transition as Phil Garrigan assumes NFCC Chair role

by Breaking NewsPeople

Phil Garrigan appointed as Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council

Phil Garrigan OBE KFSM has officially started his term as Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), the body has announced.

Garrigan assumed the position on 1 April 2025, following the conclusion of Mark Hardingham’s four-year tenure on 31 March.

Garrigan was elected to the role by NFCC Members in September 2024.

Garrigan has now stepped down from his post as Chief Fire Officer of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.

He served with the service for 35 years and was Chief Fire Officer since 2017.

NFCC Chair responsibilities and sector priorities

As Chair, Garrigan will provide professional advice to Government, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Minister responsible for fire and rescue services.

He will also work with His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, national employers and sector organisations across the UK and internationally.

Garrigan said: “It is an honour to take on the role of Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council and to build on the legacy that Mark Hardingham leaves as he starts his well-earned retirement.”

He added: “Our sector faces significant challenges ahead, particularly as we grapple with increasing risk, emerging threats associated with climate changes and a growing gap between demand and resource.

“But I am ready to lead, ensuring that fire and rescue services are fit for the future.”

Phil Garrigan’s background in the fire service

Phil Garrigan joined Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service in 1990.

He held several senior positions before being appointed Chief Fire Officer in 2017.

Garrigan also served as Vice-Chair of the NFCC and was previously the NFCC Lead for Children and Young People.

He received the King’s Fire Service Medal in the 2024 New Year Honours.

Reflecting on his career and leadership approach, Garrigan said: “Having worked closely with some of the most vulnerable and deprived communities in the UK, I have continually strived to put those communities at the heart of everything we do in the fire and rescue service.

That is something I want to emulate at a national level.”

New Vice-Chairs appointed alongside Garrigan

Kathryn Billing and Rick Hylton have also been appointed as Vice-Chairs of the NFCC.

Both will serve in this capacity while continuing as Chief Fire Officers in their respective services.

Billing joined Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service as an on-call firefighter in 2000 and became Chief Fire Officer in 2021.

She has served as NFCC lead for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and is a Director for Women in the Fire Service.

Rick Hylton began his career with Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service in 1997.

He joined Essex County Fire and Rescue Service in 2019 and became Chief Fire Officer in 2022.

He has chaired the NFCC Prevention Committee since 2023.

Phil Garrigan appointed as Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council: Summary

Phil Garrigan began his term as Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council on 1 April 2025.

He was elected in September 2024 and succeeds Mark Hardingham, who served for four years.

Garrigan steps down as Chief Fire Officer of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, where he worked for 35 years.

In his new role, Garrigan will provide professional advice to Government and work with sector bodies.

He previously served as NFCC Vice-Chair and NFCC Lead for Children and Young People.

He was awarded the King’s Fire Service Medal in 2024.

Two new Vice-Chairs, Kathryn Billing and Rick Hylton, were appointed by Garrigan.

Billing is Chief Fire Officer of Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service and previously held national roles in equality and diversity.

Hylton is Chief Fire Officer of Essex County Fire and Rescue Service and Chair of the NFCC Prevention Committee.

The NFCC confirmed that the Chair role carries an initial two-year term, with the option for renewal.

TOA UK MD Ian Bridgewater receives ISCVE Fellowship recognition

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ISCVE Board awards Fellowship to TOA UK’s Ian Bridgewater

TOA Corporation has reported that Ian Bridgewater, Managing Director of TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd, has been made a Fellow of the Institute of Sound, Communication and Visual Engineers (ISCVE).

The announcement was made at ISCVE’s recent AGM, conference and exhibition.

According to TOA Corporation, the Institute’s Board selected Bridgewater for Fellowship in recognition of his service to the audio and AV industry.

Bridgewater has worked at TOA for more than 30 years.

He started as an engineer and later became Technical Director before being appointed Managing Director in 2024.

Industry service highlighted in ISCVE recognition

Bridgewater responded to the news of his Fellowship by saying: “I am truly humbled and delighted to become a Fellow of ISCVE.

“It was a real surprise and not something I was expecting at all.

“Receiving it is a real honour and I am thrilled to be able to continue to fly the flag for audio and the AV industry as a whole.”

The ISCVE Board stated that the decision to award the Fellowship was based on Bridgewater’s long-standing commitment to the sector and his contribution to the Institute.

ISCVE Board praises long service and industry impact

Ros Wigmore, Business Manager of ISCVE, commented on the award: “Ian is a worthy recipient of the Fellowship.

“The Board were so pleased to be able to celebrate his achievements and his long service to both the Institute and the industry.”

The Fellowship is one of the highest forms of recognition awarded by ISCVE.

It acknowledges individuals who have shown dedication and long-term involvement in professional audio, communication, and visual engineering.

Recognition specific to UK audio and AV sectors

The Fellowship was awarded during the Institute’s UK-based event, making the recognition specific to the British audio and AV industry.

TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd is a provider of voice alarm, public address, and audio communications systems across the country.

Bridgewater’s role as Managing Director is based in the UK and his service has been primarily within the domestic market.

Ian Bridgewater receives ISCVE Fellowship recognition: Summary

Ian Bridgewater, Managing Director of TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd, has been awarded a Fellowship by the Institute of Sound, Communication and Visual Engineers.

The announcement was made at ISCVE’s AGM, conference and exhibition.

Bridgewater has served at TOA for more than 30 years in roles including engineer, Technical Director, and, from 2024, Managing Director.

He stated that the recognition was unexpected and expressed gratitude for the honour.

The ISCVE Board awarded the Fellowship for Bridgewater’s service to the audio and AV industry.

Ros Wigmore, ISCVE Business Manager, stated that the Board was pleased to acknowledge his contributions.

The award relates to his work in the UK audio sector.

The recognition was given by ISCVE in the UK.

Bridgewater’s work at TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd continues.