Promat strengthens UK team with new architectural specification manager

by Featured NewsPassivePeople

New architectural specification manager joins Promat

Passive fire protection specialist Promat has announced the appointment of Martin Wrigley as Architectural Specification Manager for the North and Midlands.

Wrigley will join the team alongside Harvey Brown, recently appointed as National Specification Manager, to meet growing demand for architectural and specification support under the requirements of the Building Safety Act.

The Act mandates early-stage consideration of passive fire protection systems in building designs, prompting a rise in demand for expertise in this area.

Enhanced support for architects and contractors

Wrigley will provide technical assistance to architects, specifiers, contractors, and developers in specifying passive fire protection systems.

His responsibilities include managing contractor and vendor relationships and ensuring effective communication with key project stakeholders.

Holding an IFE Level 3 qualification in Passive Fire Protection, Wrigley brings substantial experience in fire safety systems, further strengthening Promat’s ability to assist clients with regulatory compliance and system integration.

Promat’s commitment to passive fire safety

Promat has highlighted the importance of expert support in passive fire protection.

Wrigley said: “Promat creates an impressive suite of market-leading systems, and I am looking forward to continuing the work they have been doing to demonstrate their product capabilities to new and existing clients.”

He added: “The Building Safety Act has increased demand for knowledge and instruction around passive fire protection solutions, and having the support there from the manufacturer up is absolutely vital to protect both new and refurbished buildings.”

Insights from Promat leadership

Technical Director Nigel Morrey commented on Wrigley’s appointment: “The team at Promat is dedicated to providing customers with a highly detailed level of support, with competency demonstrated through experience as well as recognised qualifications.

“Martin’s vast industry expertise will be an asset to the specification team in the North and the Midlands.”

Promat strengthens UK team with new architectural specification manager: Summary

Promat has appointed Martin Wrigley as Architectural Specification Manager for the North and Midlands.

The role addresses increased demand for passive fire protection expertise under the Building Safety Act.

Wrigley, who holds the IFE Level 3 in Passive Fire Protection, brings extensive industry knowledge and will support architects, contractors, and developers.

Promat Technical Director Nigel Morrey welcomed Wrigley’s appointment, highlighting the value of his expertise to the team.

Promat continues to provide comprehensive passive fire protection solutions, ensuring regulatory compliance and safeguarding building integrity.

Dee Arp named INSHPO President for 2025 to advance OSH profession

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetyPeopleSafety

Dee Arp to lead INSHPO as President in 2025

Dee Arp, Chief Quality Officer at NEBOSH, has been appointed as President of the International Network of Safety and Health Professional Organisations (INSHPO) for 2025.

Her presidency will follow the work of Nathan Winter, the 2024 President.

Arp will focus on advancing the occupational safety and health (OSH) profession globally through strategic research and expanding membership.

Arp began her involvement with INSHPO in 2020 as NEBOSH’s representative and Secretary-Treasurer.

On 1 January 2023, she was elected Vice President.

Focus on expanding INSHPO membership

During her presidency, Arp will prioritise research to identify gaps within the current INSHPO membership.

She will also work to engage new partners with the aim of broadening INSHPO’s reach and influence.

The goal is to extend the organisation’s global impact and further strengthen the OSH community.

This aligns with INSHPO’s mission to collaborate on professional standards and safety initiatives internationally.

Dee Arp’s extensive experience in OSH

Arp brings over 25 years of experience in occupational health and safety.

She is a Chartered Safety and Health Practitioner of IOSH and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Educational Assessors.

In her role at NEBOSH, Arp oversees the development and assessment of qualifications while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

She also holds a Certificate of Continuing Education from Cambridge University and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Education.

Commitment to advancing the OSH profession

Arp is known for her belief in collaboration within the OSH community.

Her philosophy is summarised in her statement: “stronger together.”

She emphasises that collective efforts within the OSH profession are key to saving lives and ensuring safety.

Arp aims to continue building on the legacy of her predecessors to drive the profession forward.

Dee Arp named INSHPO President for 2025 to advance OSH profession: Summary

Dee Arp, NEBOSH’s Chief Quality Officer, will assume the role of President at INSHPO in 2025.

She succeeds Nathan Winter and will focus on expanding the organisation’s membership and global reach.

Arp has been involved with INSHPO since 2020, serving as its Secretary-Treasurer before becoming Vice President in 2023.

With over 25 years of experience in occupational health and safety, she holds professional designations, including Chartered Safety and Health Practitioner and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Educational Assessors.

Her leadership at NEBOSH includes overseeing qualification development and regulatory compliance.

Arp’s presidency will prioritise collaboration and research to address membership gaps, reflecting her commitment to advancing the OSH profession globally.

ASFP strengthens team with new training officer

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

Michelle Letts joins ASFP team

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has announced the appointment of Michelle Letts as an additional Training Officer.

Michelle brings 16 years of experience across construction and manufacturing sectors.

She most recently worked at ASFP member FSI, where she served as an Area Account Manager since April 2022.

Her responsibilities at FSI included delivering product awareness and basic installation training, interpreting specifications, and liaising with clients.

Before this, Michelle held several roles, including five years at acoustic wall and partition manufacturer Accordial, where she worked as a Service and Repair Account Manager and Area Sales Manager for London and the Southeast.

She also spent six years at Style Midlands, specialising in moveable partitions, where she developed a service and maintenance department and built relationships with architects, contractors, and end-user clients.

New opportunities for collaboration

Commenting on her new role, Michelle Letts said:

“I am excited to be joining the ASFP team and look forward to developing strong relationships with members as well as reaching out to the wider construction industry.

I hope to use my communication and problem-solving skills to provide an outstanding service while helping with the delivery of the Association’s training offering.

I find the fire industry fascinating and extremely welcoming and hope I can play a role in encouraging other women to join.”

Expanding ASFP’s training function

ASFP Managing Director Mike Ward shared his thoughts on the appointment: “We are delighted to welcome Michelle to the ASFP team.

“I have no doubt that she will play an active role in the further development of our growing training function.

“Michelle brings wide-ranging skills which will ensure all of our training delegates continue to receive the highest levels of service.”

About the ASFP

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection is committed to supporting the fire safety industry by providing training and promoting best practices.

Its training programmes are designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to implement effective fire protection measures.

For more information about the ASFP and its activities, visit their website at www.asfp.org.uk.

ASFP appoints Michelle Letts as training officer: Summary

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has appointed Michelle Letts as a new Training Officer.

Michelle joins the organisation with 16 years of experience in construction and manufacturing, including roles at FSI, Accordial, and Style Midlands.

At FSI, she was responsible for product awareness training and client liaison.

ASFP Managing Director Mike Ward welcomed Michelle, highlighting her role in expanding the Association’s training functions.

Michelle expressed her enthusiasm for fostering industry relationships and promoting women in the fire protection sector.

Natasha Bambridge joins Element Materials Technology as divisional director for certification

by Featured NewsPeople

Appointment of Natasha Bambridge as divisional director

Element Materials Technology has named Natasha Bambridge as Divisional Director of Certification & Technical within its Built Environment division.

This role includes overseeing BM TRADA product certification brands such as BMT QMark, Warringtonfire Certifire, Certisecure, and Firas.

According to Element Materials Technology, Bambridge will focus on certification activities, including global manufacturing site audits, verifying installation processes, and evaluating technical test evidence for construction products, with a specific focus on fire safety.

Focus on enhanced certification processes

Jason Dodds, Vice President of Built Environment at Element, highlighted Bambridge’s leadership and vision.

Dodds said: “Natasha brings exactly the kind of leadership and vision we need as we continue to evolve our product certification services.

!Her extensive experience in driving business transformation, combined with her focus on optimising the end-to-end customer journey, will be invaluable as we further strengthen our position as industry leaders, particularly as we launch our new Birchwood Park facility.”

The Birchwood Park facility in Warrington, set to open in January 2025, is a $30 million investment that will significantly expand Element’s fire resistance testing capacity.

Previous experience and contributions

Before joining Element, Bambridge held the position of Strategic Solutions Director at BSI’s Product Certification division.

Her work spanned global sustainability initiatives and multiple industry sectors, including construction, retail, and finance.

Bambridge’s previous achievements include transforming business units for growth while maintaining technical excellence.

Relocation to Birchwood Park and future goals

Currently based across Element’s High Wycombe and Warrington sites, Bambridge plans to relocate to the new 101,000 square foot Birchwood Park facility upon its completion.

Commenting on her appointment, Bambridge said: “The product certification industry is entering a transformative phase, particularly in digitisation and sustainability.

“With the opening of our new Birchwood Park laboratory, which triples our fire resistance testing capacity, we are perfectly positioned to lead these changes while continuing to ensure public safety through rigorous product certification processes.”

She added that Element’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability was a major factor in her decision to join.

Natasha Bambridge joins Element Materials Technology as divisional director for certification: Summary

Element Materials Technology has appointed Natasha Bambridge as Divisional Director of Certification & Technical in its Built Environment division.

She will oversee BM TRADA product certification brands and focus on certification processes, fire safety, and the evaluation of construction products.

The announcement comes ahead of the January 2025 opening of Element’s new Birchwood Park facility in Warrington.

Bambridge’s prior experience includes leading global sustainability initiatives and driving growth in her role at BSI.

She highlighted the transformative phase in certification, driven by digitisation and sustainability, as a key opportunity for Element.

The Birchwood Park facility will triple Element’s fire resistance testing capacity, underscoring its commitment to safety, diversity, and sustainability.

Bryn Wilde announced as Association for Project Safety President from 2027

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

APS announces new president to lead from 2027

The Association for Project Safety (APS), a UK-wide professional body with 4,500 members, has announced Dr Bryn Wilde as its President from 2027.

Dr Wilde will succeed current President Mark Snelling upon the completion of his term in February 2027.

A Chartered Civil Engineer and Fellow member of APS, Dr Wilde has been an active contributor to the organisation for over two decades.

He has held roles on the Regional Committee, Council, and Board of Directors.

Dr Bryn Wilde’s contributions to APS

Dr Wilde has played a significant role in APS governance, serving on committees such as Membership and Standards, Education and Training, and Finance.

He also represents APS on key panels, including the Construction Industry Council Health & Safety Panel and the Health and Safety Wales Consultation Panel.

Commenting on his election, Dr Wilde highlighted APS’s commitment to engaging with governments across the UK and addressing emerging legislative changes:

“APS is at a key point in its history with the introduction of the new Building Safety Act and accompanying regulations, the various responses to the post-Grenfell recommendations in the devolved nations, and the new requirements being placed around competence and organisational capability,” he said.

Collaboration with key stakeholders

APS aims to remain a prominent stakeholder in the construction sector by influencing health and safety policies and improving professional standards.

Dr Wilde said he is committed to ensuring APS continues to represent its members’ concerns and maintain its influence in legislative consultations.

He added: “I will work tirelessly to help APS maintain its place as the premier health and safety risk management and regulatory compliance body working closely with partners across the whole construction field.”

Mark Snelling, the current President, expressed his confidence in Dr Wilde’s leadership, saying: “Bryn has been a great support to me in my first year as President. We are aligned in our vision for the APS.”

APS’s role in the construction industry

APS supports its members, including architects and technologists, by providing training, education, and networking opportunities.

It aims to improve health and safety through effective design and risk management practices across the lifecycle of construction projects.

The organisation collaborates with bodies across the UK to promote better standards in the built environment, ensuring the health and safety of all involved.

Dr Bryn Wilde announced as APS President from 2027: Summary

The Association for Project Safety (APS) has elected Dr Bryn Wilde as its President for 2027.

Dr Wilde, a Chartered Civil Engineer and long-standing member of APS, will succeed Mark Snelling when his term ends in February 2027.

He has held numerous leadership roles within APS and represents the organisation on various industry panels.

Dr Wilde emphasised APS’s commitment to engaging with legislative developments, particularly in response to the Building Safety Act and post-Grenfell recommendations.

APS aims to enhance health and safety in construction through training, education, and collaboration with key stakeholders across the UK.

Paul Pope re-elected to FIA Board for fourth consecutive term

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPeople

Paul Pope’s continued leadership in the fire safety sector

According to Ajax Systems, Paul Pope, Global Head of Fire & Life Safety Business, has been re-elected to the Fire Industry Association (FIA) Board for a fourth consecutive term.

In addition to his board role, Paul also holds key positions within the FIA, including Vice Chair of the Fire Detection and Alarm Council, Vice Chair of the Service Council, and membership in the Export Council.

A decade of contributions to the FIA

Paul Pope has served as an FIA Director for six years and contributed to the Fire Detection and Alarm Council and Service Council for over 14 years.

These roles have allowed him to represent manufacturers and suppliers of fire detection and alarm equipment, advocate for industry interests in discussions with government bodies, and promote UK fire safety products and standards in global markets.

Paul Pope’s focus on advancing standards

Paul stated: “I am deeply committed to advancing standards and training in the fire and life safety sector.

“Being re-elected to the FIA’s Main Board, as well as the Fire Detection and Alarm Council and Export Council, is an honour.

“It’s a privilege to continue supporting the FIA’s vital work in driving progress and excellence across our industry.”

His re-election underscores his dedication to driving progress in the fire safety industry.

Paul Pope’s impact at Ajax Systems

Under Paul’s guidance, Ajax Systems has developed fire detection solutions that prioritise connectivity, simplicity, accuracy, and durability.

These products are crafted to meet the highest industry standards, reflecting Paul’s commitment to innovation and excellence in fire safety.

Paul Pope continues leadership with FIA Board re-election: Summary

Paul Pope, Global Head of Fire & Life Safety Business at Ajax Systems, has been re-elected to the Fire Industry Association (FIA) Board for a fourth consecutive term.

In addition to his board role, he serves as Vice Chair of the Fire Detection and Alarm Council, Vice Chair of the Service Council, and a member of the Export Council.

With over 14 years of contributions to the FIA, Paul remains dedicated to advancing standards and training in fire and life safety, while guiding Ajax Systems to meet industry-leading standards in fire detection solutions.

Advanced announces Laura Carter’s new role as Associate Product Manager

by Featured NewsPeople

Laura Carter transitions to product management role

According to Advanced, Laura Carter, formerly part of the Technical Support team, has been appointed as Associate Product Manager within the company’s Product team.

Carter has been with the organisation for several years, gaining recognition for her deep product knowledge and problem-solving abilities while working in Technical Support.

She was noted for providing trusted support to customers, enhancing Advanced’s reputation for technical excellence.

In her new position, Carter will collaborate with colleagues across the company to advance product development initiatives.

She will focus on aligning products with customer needs, drawing on her hands-on experience in Technical Support to inform the direction of Advanced’s product portfolio.

Comments from Laura Carter and Ian White

Carter expressed her enthusiasm for the role: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time in Technical Support and am grateful for the opportunities it’s given me to connect with our customers and learn the ins and outs of our products.

“I’m excited to bring that experience to my new role and look forward to contributing to the continued success of Advanced’s product range.”

Ian White, Product Manager at Advanced, highlighted Carter’s contributions: “Her hands-on experience in Technical Support and in-depth product knowledge make her an invaluable addition to the team.

“I’m confident her insights will play a key role in driving innovation and shaping our product offerings to better meet our customers’ needs.”

Focus on customer-driven product innovation

Carter’s new role underscores Advanced’s strategy of leveraging internal talent to drive innovation.

Her previous experience is expected to provide valuable insights into customer requirements, enabling the company to enhance its product range effectively.

Advanced stated that Carter’s expertise positions her well to influence product development initiatives.

The move reflects the company’s approach to aligning internal progression with its commitment to meeting customer demands.

Career development within Advanced

Advanced emphasised its commitment to fostering career growth within the organisation.

The company described Carter’s transition as an example of its focus on developing team members and creating opportunities for progression.

The organisation noted that internal career development plays a crucial role in ensuring employees contribute effectively to long-term goals.

Carter’s move aligns with this ethos, highlighting Advanced’s emphasis on both professional growth and customer-focused innovation.

Laura Carter appointed associate product manager at Advanced: Summary

Laura Carter has been named Associate Product Manager at Advanced, following her tenure in the Technical Support team.

She brings extensive product knowledge and customer-focused insights to her new role.

Ian White, Product Manager at Advanced, noted that Carter’s expertise will contribute to advancing product development.

The appointment highlights Advanced’s commitment to internal career development and meeting evolving customer needs through innovation.

Alpine Fire appoints Claire Owens as Group Managing Director

by Featured NewsFire EngineeringPeople

Claire Owens brings diverse leadership experience to Alpine

Claire Owens has been named Group Managing Director for Alpine Fire Ltd and DAS Fire Ltd.

She assumes this role with extensive leadership experience spanning industries such as automotive, logistics, telecommunications, and travel.

Her responsibilities will include overseeing the group’s continued growth, fostering collaboration among teams, and furthering Alpine’s expertise in the fire engineering sector.

Owens stated: “I am honoured to step into the role of group managing director at Alpine.

“I look forward to working alongside our talented team to drive growth and innovation and ensure that we meet the evolving needs of our clients while maintaining the highest safety standards.”

Focus on business scaling and growth

Claire Owens’ previous role involved managing over 2,000 employees.

Her approach at Alpine will centre on scaling operations, expanding service offerings, and exploring new business opportunities.

The company highlights its strategic commitment to growth, supported by its partners at WestBridge.

This includes the integration of DAS Fire following its acquisition and positioning Alpine as the UK’s leader in ESG fire engineering.

Steven Nanda, Alpine’s CEO, commented: “I am absolutely delighted that Claire has joined our leadership team.

“This is a significant appointment, supported by our partners WestBridge, which demonstrates our on-going commitment to growth and our aim to be the ‘go to’ specialist for complex fire suppression solutions.”

Strategic backing from WestBridge

WestBridge, which partnered with Alpine in 2022, has played a key role in enabling Alpine’s growth strategy.

The firm has prioritised investment in talent development and cultural excellence to support the company’s goals.

Peter Barkley, Partner at WestBridge, stated: “Having partnered with Alpine in December 2022, we have supported their continued investment in cultural excellence and the recruitment and development of high-quality talent, creating a robust platform to deliver the next phase of Alpine’s strategic growth plan.”

He added: “Alpine is still enjoying strong organic growth and following the recent acquisition of DAS Fire, it is a really exciting time to have Claire join the award-winning team at Alpine.”

Claire Owens appointed to lead Alpine Group: Summary

Claire Owens has been appointed Group Managing Director of Alpine Fire Ltd and DAS Fire Ltd.

She brings extensive leadership experience and will focus on scaling operations, exploring new business opportunities, and enhancing the group’s services.

CEO Steven Nanda and WestBridge Partner Peter Barkley welcomed her appointment, highlighting its alignment with Alpine’s ongoing strategic growth and recent acquisitions.

Alpine aims to strengthen its position as the UK’s leader in ESG fire engineering.

Kerry Gregory reappointed as Chief Executive of Fire and Emergency New Zealand

by Featured NewsPeople

Kerry Gregory’s reappointment to lead until 2027

Kerry Gregory has been reappointed as Chief Executive of Fire and Emergency New Zealand for an additional two years.

His renewed tenure will run from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2027.

From 1 February 2025, Gregory will also assume the operational leadership role of National Commander.

Rebecca Keoghan, Chair of the Board of Fire and Emergency New Zealand, highlighted the reasoning behind the reappointment: “Kerry’s mana within the organisation, his continued and clearly demonstrated leadership, and his resilience ensured that the Board was unanimous in our decision to extend his tenure.”

Leadership through change and challenges

Gregory has led Fire and Emergency New Zealand since 2022, overseeing the organisation through several challenges, including significant weather events.

Keoghan commented on his leadership: “Since his appointment, Kerry has led from the front through change, a range of challenges, and some of the most extreme weather events Aotearoa New Zealand has seen in decades.

“All the while, he has kept the organisation on the path set by the Board.”

She added that his reappointment would provide stability during a period of ongoing evolution for the organisation.

Focus on community needs and organisational growth

Fire and Emergency New Zealand faces evolving community needs and operational responsibilities.

Keoghan said: “The scope of Fire and Emergency’s response continues to change, as do the needs of the communities we serve.”

The organisation aims to maintain progress in building a safe, inclusive workplace while adapting to changing requirements.

Gregory’s reappointment was seen as key to ensuring continuity in achieving these goals.

Gregory’s vision for the future

Commenting on his reappointment, Gregory expressed his gratitude and commitment to the organisation: “It is an honour and a privilege to continue to lead an organisation that gives so much back to Aotearoa New Zealand in so many ways every single day.”

He added that he was proud of his achievements so far and optimistic about the work ahead.

Kerry Gregory reappointed as Chief Executive of Fire and Emergency New Zealand: summary

Kerry Gregory has been reappointed as Chief Executive of Fire and Emergency New Zealand for a two-year term, starting on 1 July 2025 and ending on 30 June 2027.

He will also take on the role of National Commander from February 2025.

Board Chair Rebecca Keoghan praised his leadership and resilience, citing his ability to steer the organisation through challenges while adhering to the Board’s strategic goals.

Gregory stated his pride in leading the organisation and his commitment to continuing its work in supporting communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.

ST Engineering Antycip names Benoit Rolland as new CEO from March 2025

by Breaking NewsFire EngineeringPeople

Benoit Rolland appointed CEO of ST Engineering Antycip

ST Engineering Antycip has announced the appointment of Benoit Rolland as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective from 1 March 2025.

Benoit Rolland brings over 25 years of experience in the simulation industry. He has previously held a leadership position with Antycip, which has provided him with an in-depth understanding of the company’s operations, market, and clients.

Rolland’s professional background includes expertise in strategic planning, project management, and client relations, which positions him to lead Antycip into its next stage of development.

Michel Pronier retires after 27 years of leadership

Michel Pronier, who has led Antycip for more than 27 years, is set to retire. His tenure saw the company expand its presence across international markets and establish itself as a trusted partner for simulation, virtual reality, and display solutions.

Reflecting on his time with the company, Pronier said: “It has been a true privilege to lead Antycip through such a transformative journey. As I step into retirement, I do so with immense pride in what we’ve accomplished and with great confidence in Benoit Rolland.”

He added: “Having worked with Benoit in the past, I know he possesses the vision, passion, and expertise to lead the company into an exciting future.”

Benoit Rolland outlines vision for Antycip

Rolland expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, acknowledging both the achievements of his predecessor and the opportunities that lie ahead.

“I have had the privilege of working alongside Michel Pronier for many years, and I am deeply honoured to take up this role,” Rolland stated.

He added: “My vision is to build on our legacy of technological excellence, while driving forward new initiatives that empower our customers and foster deeper collaboration. I am excited to return to the Antycip family and build upon Michel’s remarkable achievements.”

A new chapter for Antycip

The appointment of Benoit Rolland marks the start of a new chapter for ST Engineering Antycip. With his extensive experience and previous ties to the company, Antycip aims to continue its growth in the simulation, virtual reality, and display solutions markets.

Pronier’s leadership leaves a strong foundation, and the company looks ahead to further innovation and international expansion under Rolland’s guidance.

Antycip names Benoit Rolland as CEO: Summary

ST Engineering Antycip has announced Benoit Rolland as its incoming CEO, effective 1 March 2025. He succeeds Michel Pronier, who retires after 27 years of leading the company.

Rolland’s extensive background in the simulation industry and his prior association with Antycip position him to guide the company into its next phase of growth.

Pronier leaves behind a legacy of international expansion and innovation in simulation, virtual reality, and display solutions.

Rolland has expressed his commitment to building on this foundation while fostering new initiatives that enhance customer collaboration and technological development.