David Campbell awarded Dubai Civil Defence Service Excellence Award for exceptional management

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsPeople


David Campbell awarded for managing and achieving excellent results at Emirates Safety Laboratory

David Campbell, the General Manager at Dubai Civil Defence’s (DCD) Emirates Safety Laboratory (ESL), has been recognised for his outstanding management and achievements with the DCD Service Excellence Award.

The award was presented by His Excellency Lieutenant General Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi, Director General of Dubai Civil Defence H.Q. and Chairman of the ESL board.

This award acknowledges the collective efforts of the entire ESL and TribeCX teams in delivering exceptional results within the TIC Industry for the MENA region.

Campbell expressed his gratitude, stating: “I am incredibly honoured to have received the Service Excellence Award from His Excellency Lieutenant General Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi.”

Record-breaking results achieved in July 2024

The Emirates Safety Laboratory, under the leadership of David Campbell, achieved record-breaking results in July 2024.

These achievements are notable within the Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) Industry in the MENA region.

Campbell attributes this success to the hard work and expertise of the 58 specialists and technical experts who are part of the ESL team.

He said: “Our success is driven by the hard work and expertise of our 58 specialists and technical experts, who have fully embraced our North Star, Purpose, and Values.”

Team dedication highlighted as key to success

David Campbell emphasized the crucial role of the ESL team’s dedication and innovation in driving the laboratory’s success.

He highlighted that the contributions of the team are vital in making Dubai one of the safest cities in the world.

Campbell extended his heartfelt gratitude to each team member and to ESL’s valued customers for their support and commitment.

He added: “Your contributions are vital towards making Dubai one of the safest cities in the world.”

Looking forward to future milestones

Expressing optimism about the future, David Campbell stated that he is confident the ESL team will continue to reach new heights in their mission.

The laboratory aims to make Dubai a global centre for conformity assessment services and excellence.

Campbell concluded his statement by expressing his excitement for the journey ahead and his belief in achieving more milestones and successes.

He concluded: “Together, we are not just setting records; we are paving the way for a safer and more sustainable future.”

David Campbell awarded Dubai Civil Defence Service Excellence Award for exceptional management at Emirates Safety Laboratory: Summary

David Campbell, General Manager at Dubai Civil Defence’s Emirates Safety Laboratory, has been awarded the DCD Service Excellence Award for his management and achievements at the laboratory.

The award was presented by His Excellency Lieutenant General Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi.

Under Campbell’s leadership, the laboratory achieved record-breaking results in July 2024, particularly within the Testing, Inspection, and Certification Industry for the MENA region.

Campbell acknowledged the critical contributions of the ESL team and their role in enhancing Dubai’s safety.

Looking ahead, he expressed confidence in the team’s ability to continue achieving significant milestones and making Dubai a global leader in conformity assessment services.

Siemens AG expands Managing Board with new appointments and contract extensions

by Featured NewsPeople

Supervisory Board of Siemens AG expands Managing Board

The Supervisory Board of Siemens AG has announced several key leadership changes as it aims to strengthen its management team and continue driving growth as a leading technology company.

As reported by Siemens AG, Cedrik Neike, a current member of the Managing Board and CEO of Digital Industries, has been granted a five-year contract extension effective from June 1, 2025.

Neike is expected to continue leading the industrial automation and software business while advancing the transition to a software-as-a-service model.

Appointment of Peter Koerte and Veronika Bienert

The Managing Board will see the addition of two new members.

Peter Koerte, who has held various leadership roles within Siemens and Siemens Healthineers, will assume the role of Chief Technology and Chief Strategy Officer starting October 1, 2024.

Koerte will also be responsible for Siemens Xcelerator and Siemens Advanta.

Veronika Bienert, who has had a 30-year career at Siemens with significant international experience, has been appointed as CEO of Siemens Financial Services and will join the Managing Board on October 1, 2024.

Bienert will oversee the service portfolio of Siemens Real Estate and Global Business Services.

Jim Hagemann Snabe’s term as Chairman extended

The Supervisory Board has also proposed extending the role of Jim Hagemann Snabe as Chairman for an additional two years, starting in February 2025.

Snabe has expressed his gratitude to his colleagues on the Supervisory Board for their continued trust and support.

In addition to these changes, Siemens AG’s President and CEO, Roland Busch, welcomed the new appointments, highlighting the combined experience of the board members in finance, strategy, and technology.

Busch emphasised the importance of these leadership changes in furthering Siemens’ digital and sustainability transformations.

Siemens AG expands managing board with new appointments and contract extensions: Summary

Siemens AG has announced key leadership appointments to its Managing Board, including a five-year contract extension for Cedrik Neike, the appointment of Peter Koerte as Chief Technology and Chief Strategy Officer, and Veronika Bienert as CEO of Siemens Financial Services.

These changes are aimed at bolstering the company’s leadership as it continues its focus on digital and sustainability transformations.

The Supervisory Board also proposed extending Jim Hagemann Snabe’s role as Chairman for two more years, a move supported by President and CEO Roland Busch.

Gary Barthram appointed as area manager for Serco’s aviation emergency services in the Middle East

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsPeople

Appointment of Gary Barthram

As reported by Serco Middle East, Gary Barthram has been appointed as the new Area Manager for Aviation Emergency Services in the Middle East.

Barthram brings extensive experience from his previous roles in airport fire services, including his tenure as Chief Fire Officer at Heathrow Airport.

In his new position, Barthram will focus on policies, procedures, audits, and collaboration with clients to enhance airport emergency services in the region.

He aims to build strong relationships and implement best practices to improve the aviation sector’s safety and efficiency.

Gary Barthram’s career background

Barthram’s career began as a firefighter at London City Airport, followed by a move to the British Airports Authority at Stansted Airport.

He later advanced to a leading firefighter role at Heathrow, eventually becoming the Chief Fire Officer.

At Heathrow, he managed the largest airport fire service in the UK, serving around 82 million passengers annually.

Barthram has also been an active member of various rescue and firefighting service working groups, including those for ICAO, NFPA, and ACI World as part of their APEX team.

Gary Barthram’s vision and responsibilities

In his role at Serco, Barthram will act as the subject matter expert on aviation emergency services.

He will work on developing and implementing policies and procedures, conducting audits, and collaborating with clients across the Middle East.

His objectives include empowering the aviation sector with his expertise and Serco’s values, building relationships, and enabling clients to deliver safe and efficient services.

Commenting on his new role, Barthram said: “Serco’s reputation across the industry for providing excellent service was a significant factor in my decision to join.

“I am excited about the diversity of the role, working with different clients across the Middle East in my area of expertise.”

Serco’s leadership comments

Barthram will report to Teren Tan, Head of Emergency Services at Serco in the Middle East.

Teren Tan expressed enthusiasm about Barthram’s appointment: “We are excited to welcome Gary Barthram to our team.

“His extensive experience and leadership in aviation emergency services will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our service offerings and deliver exceptional value to our clients.

“With the Middle East ambitiously striving to become a leading aviation sector, Gary’s decision to join Serco is perfectly timed.”

Gary Barthram appointed as area manager for Serco’s aviation emergency services in the Middle East: Summary

Gary Barthram has joined Serco Middle East as the Area Manager for Aviation Emergency Services.

With a comprehensive background in airport fire services, including his previous role as Chief Fire Officer at Heathrow Airport, Barthram aims to enhance the safety and efficiency of airport emergency services in the Middle East.

He will focus on policies, procedures, audits, and collaboration with clients.

Reporting to Teren Tan, Head of Emergency Services at Serco, Barthram’s expertise and leadership are expected to significantly contribute to Serco’s service offerings in the region.

Johnson Controls begins search for new CEO

by Featured NewsPeople

Johnson Controls to start CEO succession plan

Johnson Controls has announced the initiation of its CEO succession plan.

George R. Oliver, the current chairman and CEO, informed the Board of Directors of his decision to begin this process following the company’s progress on its portfolio transformation.

The Board has commenced a search for the new CEO with the help of a nationally recognised executive search firm.

Oliver will continue as chairman and CEO until his successor is named and will remain chair of the Board to ensure a smooth transition.

George Oliver’s tenure and achievements

George R. Oliver has led Johnson Controls since 2017.

He remarked: “It has been a true honor to serve as CEO of Johnson Controls.

“I am proud of the remarkable success we have achieved in recent years to position our company as a pure-play provider of comprehensive solutions for commercial buildings.”

Under Oliver’s leadership, Johnson Controls has undergone a significant transformation, positioning itself as a leader in smart building technologies.

Oliver expressed confidence in the company’s future and commitment to supporting the team during the transition.

Board refreshment efforts

In conjunction with the CEO succession plan, Johnson Controls has appointed Patrick Decker to its Board of Directors, effective immediately.

Decker, the retired president and CEO of Xylem Inc., brings extensive experience in transforming industrial products companies into advanced technology enterprises.

Jürgen Tinggren, Johnson Controls’ lead independent director, commented on Decker’s appointment: “Patrick is a fantastic addition of a world-class executive with experience transforming Xylem from an industrial products company to an advanced technology, services and solutions enterprise.”

Comments from stakeholders

Marc Steinberg, Partner at Elliott Investment Management, one of Johnson Controls’ largest investors, expressed support for the recent changes: “We believe the leadership and board actions announced today, along with the recent portfolio changes, position the company to realize the benefits of its transformation, enhance operational performance, and drive shareholder value creation.”

Steinberg acknowledged the productive discussions with Oliver and his team, emphasizing that Johnson Controls is well-positioned to capitalise on future opportunities.

Tamworth students complete NSW Rural Fire Service cadet program

by Featured NewsPeopleTraining

Tamworth students graduate from RFS cadet program

As reported by the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), students from Calrossy Anglican High School have completed the Secondary School Cadet Program in the Tamworth District.

Fourteen Year 9 and 10 students graduated from the program, which aims to educate young people about fire safety and the role of emergency services.

RFS District Manager, Superintendent Bron Waters, congratulated the students on their achievement.

She highlighted the program’s focus on fire behaviour, safety techniques, and the contribution of volunteer firefighters.

Superintendent Waters said: “As well as examining fire behaviour, the participants have learned essential fire safety techniques and gained an appreciation of the work emergency services do every day across the state.”

Encouraging future firefighting efforts

Superintendent Waters emphasised the importance of the cadet program in preparing the next generation of firefighters.

She encouraged graduates to consider joining their local brigades and completing further training to become bush firefighters.

The program has been running for two decades, with thousands of students across NSW graduating.

Communities across New South Wales rely on RFS volunteers to protect them and their property.

Programs like this one help to ensure that there will be skilled volunteers ready to step in when needed.

Superintendent Waters expressed gratitude to the school staff for their support, saying: “It is fantastic to see such enthusiasm for this program from students and educators, and I would like to thank School Principal David Smith and Career Advisor Charles Impey for their support in making this course available to their students.”

Building essential skills and values

The RFS cadet program not only equips students with firefighting skills but also instils values such as teamwork, leadership, and confidence.

Delivered by local RFS volunteers, the course provides practical knowledge and an understanding of the significant role that volunteer firefighters play in their communities.

Superintendent Waters noted the enthusiasm of the participants and the importance of fostering a new generation of volunteers.

London Fire Brigade recognises outstanding achievements at fourth annual People Awards

by Featured NewsPeople

Record nominations for London Fire Brigade’s People Awards

London Fire Brigade (LFB) hosted its fourth annual People Awards on 18 July, recognising and celebrating the outstanding achievements of its staff.

As reported by London Fire Brigade, this year’s event saw over 300 individuals and teams nominated, the highest number to date.

The event, held at The Guildhall, was attended by over 250 guests, including community leaders such as Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and the Fire Service Jules Pipe CBE, Chair of LFB’s Independent Advisory Panel Martin Forde KC, and Chair of the Greater London Assembly Fire Committee Hina Bokhari AM.

Members of the LFB Community Forum, which aids in embedding community-focused practices within the Brigade, were also present.

New values align with award categories

For the first time, the award categories were aligned with LFB’s newly defined values: Service, Integrity, Teamwork, Equity, Courage, and Learning.

These values, shaped by staff experiences and the communities they serve, are based on the National Fire Chief’s Council Code of Ethics and are central to the Brigade’s operations.

The ceremony highlighted various categories, including the Service Award, Making a Difference Award, Rising Star Award, Exceptional Actions Award, Equity Award, Community Contribution Award, Courage Award, Learning Award, and Integrity Award.

Each category reflects the vital work undertaken by LFB staff daily.

Recognition for exemplary service

Wimbledon Red Watch received the Service Award for their resilience, dedication, and professionalism over an exceptionally challenging 24 months.

Station Officer Andy Cuthbert, representing Wimbledon Red Watch, said: “Wimbledon Red Watch set the gold standard in levels of professionalism and commitment.

“The People Awards are a great way to celebrate the achievements of a wide variety of people from across the organisation.”

Firefighter in Development Siobhan Priest, winner of the Rising Star Award, was recognised for her continuous encouragement of those applying to join fire services.

Priest expressed her excitement: “Receiving this award made me feel very valued by LFB.

“This award was given to me for the online work I’ve done since joining LFB and whilst I was in training school.”

Katie Deveraux from Operational Resilience, who won the Teamwork Award, reflected on her team’s achievement: “We were awarded in the teamwork category for the work we did to support the delivery of London Fire Brigade’s response to the death of Queen Elizabeth II.”

Celebrating community contributions

Station Commander Paul Anstey won the Making a Difference People’s Choice Award for his involvement in community projects such as the Wrap Up campaign, which collected over 5,000 coats for those in need.

Anstey said: “To be fortunate enough to win a People’s Award was a very special moment.

“It made me feel exceptionally proud not only to be part of LFB and such a fantastic evening but also that my award was voted for by Brigade personnel.”

Deputy Commissioner Jonathan Smith emphasised the importance of the awards: “The People Awards serve as a testament to the profound impact our staff have on their communities and each other.

“As the Brigade looks to the future, we remain committed to upholding our values and striving for excellence in all aspects of our service.”

Finalists for 2024 Women in Fire Safety Awards revealed

by Breaking NewsEventsPeople

Event details for the Women in Fire Safety Awards

The finalists for the 2024 Women in Fire Safety Awards have been announced

The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on Thursday, 12th September 2024 at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in London.

Award categories include Woman of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award, International Woman of the Year, Rising Star Award, Fire Service Award, Influencer of the Year, Fire Safety Manager of the Year, International Rising Star, Business Manager of the Year, Administrator of the Year, Inclusive Company Award, and Diversity Champion.

List of finalists

The finalists for the Woman of the Year category are Emma Massey, Lisa Howsden, Sally Hammond, Frances Radford, Emma Turner, Clare Poole, and Angela Bennett.

For the Rising Star Award, the finalists include Hannah Boyns, Lizzie Pickup, Lorna Masters, Louise Andrews, Georgina Fennell, Katherine Bogan, and Katie Grula.

The Fire Safety Manager of the Year finalists are Rahcel Pollard, Louise Curtis, Yujie Wang, Fiona Cornfield, Abigail Link, Ann Hurst, and Phil Dolphin.

Administrator of the Year finalists are Tara Caws, Dawn Figg, Sarah Forbes, Heather Smyth, Carmel Gardner, Michelle Creighton, and Lucy Denning.

The Diversity Champion category includes Hydrock, Aecom, Jenny Nangle, and Rachel Willis.

Additional categories and nominees

The International Rising Star Award finalists are Claire Doherty, Charne Prentice, Victorian Simmons, and Aracelli Tumbalobos.

For the Fire Service Award, the finalists are Dawn Whittaker, Jess Patten, Joanne Barker, Jo Bowcock, Lorelle Tolley, Sally-Anne Lees, and Emma Turner.

The Business Manager of the Year finalists are Francesca Webb, Nicki Prater, Michele Buckley, Kelly Gardiner, Kirstie Davies, Manpreet Grewal, and Sarah Leadbetter.

Influencer of the Year nominees are Gemma Hand, Eleasha Hylton-Rowe, Kacie Doyle, and Angela Everington.

Inclusive Company Award finalists include Aecom, Design Fire Consultants, Clymac, IFSM, Recom, JLA, and Hoare Lea.

The International Woman of the Year Award finalists are Salma Humaid Saeed Al Ali, Lana Benny, Louise Larkin, Marta Villano, Pilar Sancho, Petia Simeonova, and Iza Tekielak-Skalka.

The Lifetime Achievement Award winner will be announced on the night of the event.

Organisers’ comments and ticket details

The organisers commented: “Thank you so much for the trust you have put in the Women in Fire Safety Awards on our 4th Year.

“Due to the incredible support, we have received an overwhelming number of nominations.

“The standard has been incredibly high this year and we are immensely proud of you all.”

They urged interested individuals to visit the official website for a full list of all finalists and to secure tickets as soon as possible due to limited availability.

The deadline for entries was Friday, 5th July 2024, with no extensions granted to ensure equal opportunity for all nominees.

Supporting evidence for nominations must be dated from 1st January 2021 onwards, and applications from organisations with ongoing prosecutions or guilty convictions were not accepted.

About the Women in Fire Safety Awards

Founded in 2021, the Women in Fire Safety Awards aim to recognise and honour the achievements of women in the fire safety industry.

The awards seek to address the historical gender imbalance in the sector and to inspire the next generation of women to pursue careers in fire safety.

Co-founders Chloe Vickery and Kate Blake bring extensive experience in fire safety and a passion for promoting diversity within the industry.

Blake, who transitioned from finance to fire safety in 2008, now works as a Performance Coach, helping women in leadership roles.

IFSJ comment

The Women in Fire Safety Awards play a crucial role in acknowledging the contributions of women in an industry where they have been historically underrepresented.

By celebrating the achievements of these finalists, the awards highlight the progress being made towards gender equality in fire safety.

Recognising individuals and organisations that promote diversity not only honours their efforts but also encourages others to follow suit.

This year’s finalists demonstrate the high standards and dedication present within the fire safety community.

As the event approaches, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to support and encourage women’s participation in all levels of the fire safety sector.

Firesafe names Mark Firth as Managing Director

by Featured NewsPeople

Mark Firth appointed as Managing Director of Firesafe

Channel Islands passive fire protection contractor, Firesafe, has promoted Mark Firth to the role of managing director, as reported by Channel Eye.

Firth joined Firesafe after relocating to Guernsey in 2020, following his tenure at companies such as McNicholas Construction and Siemens.

He initially joined Rihoy & Son as MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) manager, later helping to establish Firesafe.

This promotion coincides with Firesafe achieving updated FIRAS certification in various areas, including cavity barriers, penetration sealing, fire door maintenance, dry lined partition systems, and fire door installation.

Firesafe now holds the most third-party accreditations for passive fire protection in the Channel Islands.

Expansion and achievements

As managing director, Firth will oversee the development and delivery of passive fire protection systems for a diverse range of clients across the Channel Islands.

His extensive qualifications will ensure Firesafe’s continued leadership in the industry.

The recent certifications further solidify Firesafe’s reputation as a top-tier provider of passive fire protection.

Dan Taylor, managing director of Rihoy & Son and director of Firesafe, commented: “Mark’s industry expertise and energy has developed Firesafe from a start-up business to a leading specialist contractor on the island, and his new role sets the foundation to further grow Firesafe within Guernsey and the Channel Islands.”

Future prospects for Firesafe

The promotion of Firth is seen as a strategic move to enhance Firesafe’s service offerings and client base.

His leadership is expected to drive growth and innovation within the company, aligning with the evolving needs of fire protection in the Channel Islands.

Firth’s role will be crucial in navigating the company through the complexities of passive fire protection, ensuring compliance with the latest standards and certifications.

This strategic leadership aims to reinforce Firesafe’s commitment to quality and safety in fire protection solutions.

Firesafe’s role in the Channel Islands

Firesafe’s recent achievements in obtaining multiple FIRAS certifications highlight its commitment to maintaining high standards in fire safety.

The company’s focus on quality and compliance positions it as a trusted provider in the Channel Islands, dedicated to protecting properties and ensuring safety through advanced fire protection systems.

Long-serving fire officer appointed to lead Tayside operations

by Featured NewsPeople

Area commander Bryan Todd assumes new role in Tayside

A long-serving fire officer with over three decades of experience has taken on a new leadership role for fire and rescue operations across Tayside, as reported by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

Area Commander Bryan Todd is the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s (SFRS) new Local Senior Officer for Perth, Kinross, Angus, and Dundee.

He will be responsible for more than 20 community fire stations and will oversee collaborations with key partners to enhance community safety.

Todd expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating: “I am looking forward to working with the team, as well as with partners.

“It is such an honour to continue the impressive work they have already achieved.”

A seasoned career in firefighting

Area Commander Todd began his firefighting career in 1990 as an on-call firefighter in Moffat with the then Dumfries and Galloway Fire and Rescue Service.

At the time, he was working as a joiner and responded to emergencies via a pager.

He joined the fire service following encouragement from a local tradesperson who was also a firefighter.

He reflected on his decision: “One of the local tradespersons who was also a firefighter encouraged me to join. I went for it and have never looked back.”

In 2002, Todd relocated to Fife, where he joined the ranks as a wholetime firefighter based at Lochgelly.

He has held various strategic positions within the service, most recently overseeing breathing apparatus training at the East Service Delivery Area training centre in Newbridge, Edinburgh.

Commitment to charity and community service

Beyond his firefighting duties, Area Commander Todd is actively involved in the SFRS partnership with the charity Anthony Nolan.

He was part of the team that received the inaugural Gary Dall Award, named after a friend and colleague who passed away in 2018.

The award recognises groups across Scotland that work to recruit potential stem cell donors.

Reflecting on the award, Todd said: “Gary was a respected fire officer and a friend who faced his condition with courage and determination.

“It was an honour to receive the award with my colleagues on behalf of the team.”

He added: “I look forward to building on the partnership already established in our area.”

Leadership transition welcomed by SFRS

Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Stephen Wood, SFRS Head of Service Delivery for the North of Scotland, welcomed Todd’s new appointment.

Wood said: “I am pleased to welcome Bryan as Area Commander and Local Senior Officer for Perth, Kinross, Angus, and Dundee.

“He is an exceptional officer, and we are proud to have him take on this responsibility.”

Apollo Fire Detectors announces Nicola Tebble as new marketing director

by Featured NewsPeople

Appointment of Nicola Tebble as marketing director

Apollo Fire Detectors Ltd has announced the appointment of Nicola Tebble as its new Marketing Director.

Nicola brings over 20 years of global experience in marketing and product management to the company.

She has a proven track record in building and developing global teams that deliver a strong product pipeline and compelling communications, as reported by Apollo Fire Detectors.

Nicola joins Apollo from Vaarst, a robotic and AI technology company, where she served as Director of Product and Marketing.

Her previous experience includes a 14-year tenure at Dyson, where she progressed from an Account Director to the Global Head of Category within the B2B space.

Managing director’s perspective on the new appointment

Rob Barcik, Apollo’s Managing Director, expressed his enthusiasm for Nicola’s arrival, saying: “I am very excited to have Nicola join Apollo and she will improve our ability to communicate with our customers and partners.

“Her strength in utilising market insights to differentiate product roadmaps will build on our strong technical and NPD processes.

“This will allow us to identify new product opportunities and bring exciting solutions to the market.”

Apollo’s Board of Directors are confident that Nicola’s approach to the role will further elevate the company’s position within the fire industry.

They believe her skills and experience will be instrumental in advancing the company’s strategic goals.

Background and expertise of Nicola Tebble

Nicola’s career spans various high-profile roles in marketing and product management.

At Vaarst, she led initiatives that integrated robotic and AI technology into their product strategies.

Her extensive experience at Dyson included overseeing multiple product categories and driving growth in the B2B sector.

Her ability to harness market insights and translate them into effective product strategies is seen as a valuable asset for Apollo Fire Detectors.

Her new role at Apollo will focus on enhancing communication strategies with customers and partners, leveraging her expertise to strengthen the company’s market position and identify new opportunities for innovation.