E&B Fire appoints Simon Parr as Operations Director

by Featured NewsPeople

Why E&B Fire’s latest appointment could shape its future growth

E&B Fire has announced the appointment of Simon Parr as Operations Director to guide its expanding team and uphold high standards of customer care.

According to the company, the appointment reflects a focus on maintaining quality as the business continues to grow in the life safety and security sector.

Parr brings over twenty years of experience in the fire and security industry, having held both operational and management roles across teams, projects and contracts.

The firm said his practical background, focus on people and commitment to process improvement made him a strong addition to its leadership team.

Focus on quality and team development

Simon Parr, Operations Director at E&B Fire, said: “What stood out to me about E&B Fire is the way it combines technical knowledge with teamwork and a genuine focus on customer care.

“It also allows me to work alongside a skilled team that values both service and performance.

“My aim is to support the team, build on the strong foundation already in place and help make sure our operations develop alongside the growth of the business.

“I want to create an environment where people can succeed and where quality remains at the centre of everything we do.”

In his new role, Parr will oversee day-to-day operations, working closely with teams across the company to ensure projects run smoothly from design through to completion.

He will also help shape operational strategy, apprenticeship opportunities and the development of skilled talent.

Strengthening leadership foundations

E&B Fire said Parr will support new initiatives that improve efficiency, training and long-term sustainability.

Luke Stuart-Evans, Co-Director at E&B Fire, said: “Simon brings the right experience and approach to our team.

“As we grow, it’s important that our operations remain strong and consistent to maintain customer excellence, and Simon will play a key role in ensuring this happens.

“His focus on people and practical knowledge fits well with how we work, and I know he will help us continue building a capable, reliable team for the future.”

Andy Brooks, Co-Director at E&B Fire, added: “Simon’s appointment reinforces the leadership foundations Luke and I have built.

“We want to make sure our growth is backed by strong operational oversight and the same principles of quality and reliability that define how we work.”

Operational leadership and industry relevance

The appointment of an Operations Director highlights how E&B Fire is prioritising structured growth, operational consistency and workforce development across its projects in life safety and security.

For fire-protection contractors and system installers, the focus on training and apprenticeships reflects continued investment in skills pipelines across the sector.

Facility managers and project leads may also view this as a sign of strengthened delivery frameworks, particularly in ensuring installation and maintenance processes remain reliable as the business scales.

E&B Fire’s leadership expansion points to a wider industry trend of formalising operational governance to meet increasing safety and compliance expectations.

IAFC begins search for new Chief Executive Officer to guide future direction

by Americas - Featured NewsAssociations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

IAFC begins search for new Chief Executive Officer

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has announced the start of its recruitment process for a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

According to the organisation, the role will lead the IAFC through a period of transformative change while advancing its mission to lead, educate and serve the fire and emergency services community.

Applications are open to qualified individuals and to those recommending potential candidates.

The IAFC said the position is based in the greater Washington DC area and requires on-site presence.

The CEO will work closely with the President of the Board of Directors and other senior leaders to oversee all aspects of IAFC operations.

Role and responsibilities

According to the job description, the CEO will be responsible for business operations, strategic planning, personnel management, financial oversight and public engagement.

Responsibilities include executing strategic direction, approving business plans, formulating policies and maintaining relationships with federal agencies and partner organisations.

The CEO will also act as a public spokesperson for the organisation and will represent the IAFC in collaboration with allied and international associations.

The IAFC stated that the role includes extensive travel commitments, including international trips that may exceed 50% of total time.

The successful candidate will ensure the organisation’s activities reflect its mission, vision and values in all daily operations.

Required experience and qualifications

The IAFC has outlined detailed requirements for applicants, including a bachelor’s degree in non-profit management, public administration, business or a related field.

A master’s degree or professional designation such as CAE, CFOD, SPHR or PMP is preferred.

Applicants must have at least 20 years of experience, including a minimum of 10 years in a senior leadership position within a non-profit or public organisation.

Previous experience as a chief executive or senior leader in a professional association is considered advantageous.

The IAFC noted that the role requires strong leadership, analytical and communication skills, with demonstrated success in building high-performing teams.

Candidates should also show a commitment to continuous learning, technological proficiency and effective public relations.

The IAFC added that applications can be submitted via the recruitment partner Truity Partners using the reference number 41698.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This leadership transition is relevant for senior fire and rescue officers, association members, training institutions and policy advisors involved in emergency service governance.

The IAFC plays a major role in shaping standards, leadership development and international cooperation across the sector, and its new CEO will influence the strategic direction of those efforts.

The position’s emphasis on operational oversight, government engagement and educational outcomes could have practical implications for collaboration between departments and associations globally.

Gaurav Arora joins Kentec to direct global product strategy and support

by Featured NewsFire DetectionPeopleTraining

Kentec appoints Gaurav Arora as general manager

Kentec Electronics has appointed Gaurav Arora as General Manager, Product Management and Technical Support.

The company said the appointment will strengthen its service, support and training functions across its product portfolio.

Leadership and experience

Kentec confirmed that Arora will manage end-to-end product lifecycles across its range of fire control and safety systems.

He will lead market-driven product development, define the product roadmap and oversee customer training and technical support.

Arora has 20 years of experience in the fire and security sectors, including 15 years in product management and five years in customer-facing roles.

He previously led commercial and domestic fire detection initiatives involving wireless fire detection and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies.

Building on customer satisfaction

Kevin Mears, Global Product Manager (EN) at Kentec, said: “Gaurav brings deep knowledge of product development, support and training and will be invaluable in building on the customer satisfaction that Kentec is already known for.”

The company stated that the role aligns with a broader strategic focus within Hochiki Corporation’s International Business Division, led by Kentec Managing Director Kevin Swann.

This follows the appointment of Frank Tan to lead business development across the Asia Pacific region.

Collaboration and technical focus

Working from Kentec’s Dartford, Kent headquarters, Arora said: “I have always collaborated closely with technical teams and am excited by the close fit at Kentec between technical support and product management – which enhances quality, speeds product improvements and ensures customer needs are reflected in both a well-defined roadmap and support readiness.”

He added: “I also look forward to working alongside a team of talented professionals whose combined experience in the fire industry exceeds a century!”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

Arora’s appointment will interest system specifiers, product developers and technical training providers who rely on Kentec’s fire detection and control products.

His dual oversight of product management and technical support indicates an increased emphasis on integrating customer feedback directly into product updates and training.

This may improve response to on-site issues and enhance the efficiency of future product rollouts.

It also signals a focus on knowledge transfer between development teams and end users, which could affect training content and post-installation support processes for installers and system maintainers.

BAFE Holdings names Lewis Ramsay as new Group Chief Operating Officer

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

BAFE Holdings appoints Lewis Ramsay as Group Chief Operating Officer

BAFE Holdings has announced the appointment of Lewis Ramsay as Group Chief Operating Officer, effective Monday 3 November 2025.

Ramsay brings more than 30 years of experience in operations and strategic leadership within the fire safety sector.

He will oversee operational strategy and implementation across all BAFE-owned companies.

According to BAFE, his appointment supports the Group’s commitment to operational excellence and continued growth.

BAFE leadership welcomes Ramsay to the Group

Dr Justin Maltby-Smith, Group Chief Executive Officer of BAFE Holdings, welcomed the appointment and highlighted Ramsay’s sector knowledge and leadership experience.

Dr Maltby-Smith said: “We are delighted to welcome Lewis to the BAFE Group.

“His extensive operational expertise, leadership experience and knowledge of BAFE, FireQual and the fire safety sector will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our business and deliver long-term value for our stakeholders.”

Ramsay reflects on joining BAFE Holdings

Ramsay expressed enthusiasm for the role and the opportunity to contribute to BAFE’s ongoing development.

Lewis Ramsay, Group Chief Operating Officer at BAFE Holdings, said: “I was honoured to accept the role of BAFE Group Chief Operating Officer and, I look forward to getting started and doing all that I can to help the BAFE Group further develop their proven track record in improving standards across the fire safety sector.

“These are very exciting times, and I count myself very fortunate to be taking on this role at a time of change, growth and development.”

BAFE stated that his appointment will further enhance operational effectiveness and support the organisation’s long-term sustainability objectives.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The appointment of Lewis Ramsay as Group Chief Operating Officer at BAFE Holdings will be of interest to professionals working in certification, competency development and organisational compliance within the fire safety sector.

BAFE oversees schemes that define and maintain third-party certification for fire safety service providers, while FireQual manages qualifications and training frameworks for industry professionals.

Ramsay’s leadership background and familiarity with BAFE’s structure may influence how these areas evolve operationally, potentially shaping future standards and pathways for accredited organisations and practitioners.

Hyfire expands regional sales team with Johan Paulsen appointment

by Featured NewsPeople

Hyfire expands South West sales coverage

Hyfire has appointed Johan Paulsen as its new South West Regional Sales Manager, adding to its team of Regional Sales Managers in the UK.

Hyfire announced the appointment and said Paulsen brings more than 25 years of technical experience across fire detection and electronics after representing the company in South Africa for three years.

He has worked for 12 years in the fire detection industry and 15 years in electronics.

The company said this background includes precision engineering and system reliability.

Paulsen also holds an NHD in electrical engineering.

His training also includes courses in management, project management, software, business practices, motivational and team growth.

He is set to focus on the South West region of the UK.

His stated aim is to build long-term partnerships with installers that share Hyfire’s approach to quality and reliability.

Hyfire sets out sector focus and product aims

Hyfire said Paulsen will focus on vertical markets where the business is already active, drawing on his previous work in South Africa.

Paulsen said: “I had excellent success in the South African market in Hospitality and Leisure, Education, and Heritage sectors, and I plan to leverage that experience to identify new growth opportunities in the UK – particularly in these same verticals.”

“I also think using the information we get from devices in a building can be incorporated into BMS systems to add value to and thus make our product even more desirable compared to the competition.”

He also described why he wanted the role and how he views the company’s wireless fire detection technology.

Paulsen commented: “Fire detection is traditionally a slow moving industry, but being part of a healthy, disruptive product makes it fun and engaging – he emphasises – I truly believe it will save more lives than traditional wired systems because it is, by design, less susceptible to failure that only results in the fire system being ignored as can happen with wired system.”

In the announcement, he also described the technology as “more stable than cable.”

The company said he enjoys spending time with his family, travelling and food, and also has hobbies including repairing vintage watches, leatherwork, fountain pens and motorcycles.

Hyfire said his role will centre on identifying installers that deliver strong results and protect the integrity of the Hyfire brand.

NetVu name Alan Hickson as new COO

by Breaking NewsPeople

Alan Hickson has been named Chief Operating Officer (COO) of NetVu, a UK-based specialist in secure, intelligent video surveillance solutions.

This appointment comes as the company builds on major project wins and will support its growth plans across key sectors, including fire prevention, industrial, public safety and transport, while scaling its cloud-enabled services to meet the evolving needs of its global customer base.

With more than 36 years in the security and surveillance industry, Hickson brings expertise across engineering, project delivery and commercial leadership.

In this newly created position, he will continue to optimise operations, enabling delivery at scale, while maintaining the agility and technical depth the business is known for.

Chief Operating Officer, NetVu, Alan Hickson’s statement

Commenting on his appointment, Hickson said: “NetVu has a strong reputation for innovation in complex, high-trust environments.

“My focus is on strengthening how we deliver our solutions, ensuring the right people, processes and systems are in place to support our customers and to continue the momentum the business has already built.”

Chairman and CTO, NetVu, Mike Newton’s statement

Mike Newton, Chairman and CTO at NetVu said: “Alan brings deep operational insight combined with sector expertise.

“His appointment enables me to dedicate more time to shaping our technology strategy, supporting key client relationships and driving long-term business direction.

“A central part of our strategy is to accelerate the rollout of our cloud-connected surveillance services to market, ensuring customers can access the intelligence, accuracy, flexibility and security they need from our solutions.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the positive impact Alan will have as we continue to grow.”

NetVu name Alan Hickson as new COO: Summary

Alan Hickson has been named Chief Operating Officer of NetVu, a UK-based specialist in secure, intelligent video surveillance solutions.

Bill Webb ends 30-year tenure leading CFSI and advancing US fire services

by Americas - Breaking NewsBreaking NewsPeople

Bill Webb announces retirement from CFSI after 30 years

The Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) has announced that Executive Director Bill Webb will retire on Wednesday 31 December 2025 after 30 years in the role.

Webb shared the news during a reception attended by members of the CFSI National Advisory Committee and long-time associates.

In his remarks, Webb said: “A friend of mine recently summed up his career by saying you never have to work a day in your life if you enjoy what you’re doing.

“For the most part, those words describe how I feel about my work.

“I did not look at my days in the office as work, but more as an opportunity to serve others and by doing so, contribute a little something to the safety of our great nation.”

Leadership through six Administrations

During his tenure, Webb worked with six presidential Administrations and ten United States Fire Administrators.

CFSI said his contributions included the creation of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program in 2000, support for the United States Fire Administration and National Fire Academy, and continued advocacy for fire safety and prevention.

He also maintained close relationships with members of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, helping to preserve its bipartisan approach to advancing fire and emergency service issues.

According to CFSI, these efforts have shaped legislative engagement on key fire service priorities for more than two decades.

Estepp praises Webb’s legacy

CFSI President Jim Estepp acknowledged Webb’s leadership, quoting former US President Harry Truman: “It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you don’t care who gets the credit.”

Estepp said: “At times a quiet force, Bill has undoubtedly proven himself as a pivotal fire service leader over the past 30 years, influencing important issues in Washington, DC, that have greatly benefited our nation’s fire and emergency services.

“We will miss his leadership.”

Michaela Campbell appointed as successor

Estepp confirmed that Michaela Campbell, currently CFSI Director of Government Affairs, will succeed Webb as Executive Director.

Campbell has previous experience working in Congress for Senator Susan Collins, as well as serving as a lobbyist and legislative assistant.

Estepp said: “Throughout the years, Michaela has demonstrated herself to be a strong leader and effective voice for our nation’s fire services.

“I am confident that she will continue the legacy of strong leadership set by Bill Webb as our next Executive Director.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The leadership change at CFSI marks a major transition for US fire service policy engagement.

Bill Webb’s tenure coincided with key legislative milestones, including the establishment of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, which has provided funding to departments nationwide for training, equipment and safety improvements.

For senior officers, policymakers and association representatives, the appointment of Michaela Campbell ensures continuity in federal advocacy for fire and emergency services.

Her background in congressional affairs and lobbying positions her to maintain CFSI’s established role as a bridge between legislators and the fire service community.

Promat expands specification team to meet Building Safety Act demand

by Featured NewsPassivePeople

Promat appoints new Project Specification Manager for South East operations

New appointment supports regional construction sector

Passive fire protection specialist Promat has appointed Dom Mason as Project Specification Manager to support customers across the South East.

Promat said the appointment will strengthen its regional coverage across North London, the Home Counties, Essex and East Anglia.

Mason will work as part of the wider UK team to assist with passive fire protection specification requirements for construction projects.

The company added that Mason brings extensive experience within the passive fire protection sector and a detailed understanding of the impact of recent industry regulations.

He is currently working towards the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) Level 3 in Passive Fire Protection.

Focus on structural steel and large-scale projects

Promat explained that Mason’s work will focus on supporting structural steel projects, large commercial developments and high-rise internal fit-out schemes.

Mason said: “The Building Safety Act has driven major change in the industry, and the need for additional information and support at the specification stage.

“It also allows us to support best practice in the specification of passive fire protection, especially with the level of testing that Promat offers.

“This is a major benefit for customers looking for a more harmonised approach that can be assessed for use in a wider range of applications.

“Being able to provide customers with recommendation details is essential to helping meet demand for more tested solutions.

“I’m looking forward to engaging with existing and new customers as well as meeting up with some familiar faces across the industry.”

Supporting growth under Building Safety Act requirements

Promat said Mason’s appointment aligns with its growth strategy as demand increases for passive fire protection and supporting documentation in line with the Building Safety Act.

National Specification Manager Harvey Brown added: “Dom is a great asset to the team.

“His experience in supporting specification requirements for the Building Safety Regulator will be a real benefit to customers looking for focused support.”

Promat manufactures passive fire protection systems designed to contain the spread of fire, allowing safe evacuation and protecting the integrity of buildings and assets.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The appointment of a new Project Specification Manager at Promat is directly relevant to building specifiers, architects, fire engineers and contractors working on construction projects in the South East.

Mason’s focus on structural steel, high-rise fit-outs and large commercial buildings aligns with areas most affected by the Building Safety Act’s increased requirements for transparency and tested passive fire protection systems.

Professionals involved in design, compliance and material specification will have access to additional technical support and tested data, improving assurance across regulated projects.

This development also highlights the industry’s continued response to post-Grenfell regulatory frameworks, particularly regarding evidence-based fire-protection design.

Fire Aware urges shared beyond legal compliance

by ConstructionFeatured NewsPeopleSafety

Fire Aware calls for moral responsibility across the fire safety supply chain

Organisation urges shift from compliance to culture

In a recent post, Fire Aware Chief Executive Officer Gavin Skelly called for greater moral responsibility across the fire safety supply chain.

He said the organisation is seeking behavioural change from everyone involved in the industry.

Skelly explained that while the sector has faced a wave of new legislation and guidance, lasting improvement requires a cultural shift.

He stated that moral responsibility must underpin compliance efforts, warning that there is a danger of “compliance for compliance sake.”

Moving beyond regulation and silos

According to Fire Aware, the Building Safety Act 2022 represents a wide-reaching challenge for professionals across design, construction, and management.

Skelly said the scale of new obligations means businesses at all levels of the supply chain must cooperate and support one another.

He added that Fire Aware includes itself in this responsibility as a body offering advice and technical guidance.

The organisation said there is an opportunity to bring together expertise from across the fire sector to promote consistent standards of behaviour.

Skelly said: “We see an opportunity to unite the fire safety industry beyond its own silos.

“It is expertise that drives best practice, and consistency in behaviour is what will create lasting change.”

Code of conduct and charters introduced

To support this aim, Fire Aware has created a Code of Conduct alongside a series of charters for contractors, developers, designers, and local authorities.

The organisation said these documents are designed to complement, not replace, existing laws or professional obligations.

According to Fire Aware, its charters ask members to prioritise the safety of end users and to exceed minimum standards where possible.

The organisation said members are encouraged to identify as businesses that “care” about the wider community and safety outcomes.

Fire Aware described its initiative as a call to collective moral action within and beyond the fire safety sector.

Skelly concluded: “We are a community of businesses and organisations taking a stand in the name of moral responsibility.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

Fire Aware’s emphasis on moral responsibility is directly relevant to building designers, contractors, and fire-protection specialists working under the Building Safety Act 2022.

The organisation’s code and charters provide a framework for companies aiming to align internal practices with higher ethical and technical standards.

For compliance managers and building owners, these documents could help clarify expectations around duty of care beyond statutory obligations.

By linking moral accountability with practical safety outcomes, Fire Aware’s initiative highlights the growing role of professional culture in ensuring effective building safety governance.

This article was informed by information from the following source: Fire Aware

Sustainability expert joins +impact to support Vision 2030 goals

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsPeopleSustainability

+impact appoints Norman McComb as Sustainability Advisory Director

Appointment supports Vision 2030 sustainability goals

+impact, Serco’s advisory business, has appointed Norman McComb as Sustainability Advisory Director to lead its sustainability agenda in Saudi Arabia.

According to the company, the appointment will strengthen its ability to deliver on the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.

McComb has more than 20 years of international experience in capital project delivery, climate adaptation and large-scale transformation programmes.

He has contributed to national development, energy and infrastructure initiatives across several regions.

Before joining +impact, McComb served as Sustainability Director at EY Consulting in Saudi Arabia.

At EY Consulting, he advised government entities and large organisations on operationalising sustainability strategies across major infrastructure and national development programmes.

Role to focus on practical sustainability delivery

In his new position, McComb will work with clients across transitioning industries, future cities and critical national infrastructure.

His remit includes translating Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 sustainability ambitions into practical outcomes and embedding sustainability principles across +impact’s services.

The company said that this expertise will also reinforce Serco’s operational contracts and accountability for environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals.

McComb said: “I joined +impact because it’s unlike any other advisory firm — our strategies are shaped by real operational experience.

“It also allows us to draw on Serco’s record in delivering complex government and infrastructure services.

“We don’t just design solutions, we know how to make them work in practice.

“Saudi Arabia’s growth trajectory is at the forefront of the sustainable economic development conversation.

“I look forward to supporting clients in delivering projects that advance national priorities and create a lasting positive impact for future generations.”

Leadership highlights Saudi sustainability momentum

Phil Malem, Chief Executive Officer of +impact and Serco Middle East, said: “We are delighted be expanding our +impact team and welcome Norman to the business at a time when Saudi Arabia is delivering some of the world’s most ambitious sustainability projects.

“His expertise will strengthen our ability to support Vision 2030 by turning ambition into measurable outcomes.”