Posts tagged: new appointment

Armstrong Fluid Technology appoints Andrew Harrop as global director

Armstrong Fluid Technology has announced the appointment of Andrew (Andy) Harrop as the Global Director for its Regional Sales Enablement Centers.

In this new role, Harrop will oversee all of Armstrong’s Regional Sales Enablement Centers worldwide.

His responsibilities will encompass leading sales programs, and learning initiatives aimed at both the internal sales force and external Sales Partners and Channels, as reported by Armstrong Fluid Technology.

Harrop has been with Armstrong since 2011, contributing to various sales and engineering teams globally.

His work has focused on developing solutions tailored to customer needs.

Mike Fischer, Global Commercial Director, Building Business at Armstrong, noted: “Andy has been the driving force behind the creation of the Regional Sales Enablement structure.”

Harrop’s extensive experience in various sectors

Before joining Armstrong, Andrew Harrop had an extensive career across multiple sectors, including Petrochemical, HVAC, MEP, and Fire Safety.

His roles in these industries were noted for their high impact, particularly in systems design, installation, and process engineering.

Harrop’s technical expertise is backed by a First-Class Honours degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Bolton.

He is also a chartered engineer with memberships in both the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) and the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE).

Leadership in sales and engineering

Throughout his career at Armstrong, Harrop has worked closely with sales and engineering teams to deliver innovative solutions to customers.

His leadership in developing the Regional Sales Enablement structure highlights his ability to bridge technical expertise with sales strategies.

Harrop’s appointment as Global Director is seen as a continuation of his work in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of Armstrong’s sales and engineering operations worldwide.

His role will be crucial in driving the company’s global sales initiatives forward.

Armstrong Fluid Technology’s global impact

Armstrong Fluid Technology is known for its advanced energy-efficient solutions and has a global footprint in the HVAC and fluid flow industries.

The appointment of Andrew Harrop as Global Director for Regional Sales Enablement Centers underscores the company’s commitment to strengthening its global sales strategies and supporting its partners worldwide.

Harrop’s leadership is expected to further align Armstrong’s sales operations with its engineering capabilities, ensuring that customers worldwide receive the best possible service and solutions.

Armstrong Fluid Technology names Andrew Harrop as global director for regional sales enablement: Summary

Armstrong Fluid Technology has appointed Andrew Harrop as the Global Director for its Regional Sales Enablement Centers.

Harrop, who joined Armstrong in 2011, will lead the company’s sales programs and learning initiatives globally.

He has a diverse background, having worked in Petrochemical, HVAC, MEP, and Fire Safety sectors, and holds a First-Class Honours degree in Mechanical Engineering.

His new role will focus on enhancing the effectiveness of Armstrong’s global sales operations.

The company sees this appointment as a step towards further strengthening its global sales and engineering strategies.

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.

Air Vice-Marshal Fin Monahan takes on new leadership role in South Wales

As reported by South Wales Fire and Rescue, Air Vice-Marshal Fin Monahan OBE DFC PhD has been appointed as the new Chief Fire Officer for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS).

Commissioner Carl Foulkes, chair of the appointment panel, stated that the recruitment process was thorough and aimed at finding a leader capable of guiding the Service through upcoming changes.

The search, extending beyond the fire and rescue sector, attracted diverse applicants from across the UK.

Foulkes commented on the process: “Throughout this recruitment process, the Commissioners were acutely aware of the importance of finding an exceptional leader to guide the Service through the cultural and organisational changes it faces.”

Monahan’s distinguished career and qualifications

Air Vice-Marshal Monahan joins SWFRS from a highly decorated career in the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

He has extensive experience in leadership roles, including operational tours overseas and various command positions within the UK.

He holds Masters degrees from the University of Nottingham and the University of Madras and earned a Doctorate PhD in Organisational Culture from the University of Birmingham in 2018.

Monahan has researched extensively on culture and cohesion in uniformed organisations and is a published writer.

Monahan expressed his gratitude upon his appointment: “I am honoured to be entrusted with this important role, and I’m grateful to the staff, unions, stakeholders, and Commissioners for their confidence in me.”

Transition and future plans

Air Vice-Marshal Monahan will assume his role after the completion of necessary background and security checks.

In the interim, Stuart Millington will continue as interim Chief Fire Officer to ensure a smooth handover.

The Commissioners and Monahan will collaborate closely to establish a permanent Executive Leadership Team for SWFRS.

This new team will support Monahan in his efforts to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for all staff members.

Monahan’s vision for the Service is clear: “I look forward to joining the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service team.

“I would like every staff member, regardless of their role or location, to feel proud of their work, and to join me and the leadership team to rebuild the Service into an organisation where everyone feels welcome, supported, and safe.”

Leadership transition in South Yorkshire’s fire service

Andy Strelczenie has been named the new Deputy Chief Fire Officer of South Yorkshire, following an extensive and thorough selection process.

Currently holding the position of Assistant Chief Fire Officer within the same service, Strelczenie’s promotion comes after he successfully navigated through several recruitment stages, culminating in an interview with the Fire Authority’s appointments committee.

With a 27-year tenure in the fire and rescue service, starting at Hereford and Worcester Fire & Rescue Service before his transfer to South Yorkshire, Strelczenie has played a pivotal role in various critical areas.

His contributions have spanned emergency response, service improvement, business fire safety, and inspection planning, among other responsibilities.

Unanimous approval and forward vision

The appointment has garnered unanimous support from the Fire Authority’s appointments panel, highlighting Strelczenie’s impressive candidacy and forward-looking vision for the service.

Cllr Charlie Hogarth, Fire Authority Chair, expressed enthusiasm for Andy’s upcoming contributions: “The Fire Authority’s appointments panel found Andy to be an extremely impressive candidate and we were excited by his vision for the service.

“We were unanimous in our decision to appoint him to the position of Deputy Chief Fire Officer and are excited to continue working closely with him in his new role.”

Commitment to service improvement and culture

Expressing his eagerness to assume his new responsibilities, Andy Strelczenie shared his ambitions for the role: “I look forward to working with people across the service to continually improve the work we do for local people.

“I very much look forward to using my skills and experience to foster a positive workplace culture for all our staff.”

Strelczenie is set to take up his new role in March, succeeding the retiring Deputy Chief Fire Officer Tony Carlin.

IFSJ Comment

The appointment of Andy Strelczenie as Deputy Chief Fire Officer marks a strategic step forward for the South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

His extensive experience and proven leadership within the fire and rescue sector position him well to steer the service towards future challenges and opportunities.

Andy’s commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture and enhancing service delivery underscores the importance of leadership in public safety roles.

As the service faces the demands of the future, Andy’s role will be instrumental in ensuring that the fire and rescue service remains equipped to protect and serve the community effectively.

This transition not only represents continuity within the leadership ranks but also a commitment to embracing new ideas and approaches to improve service delivery and community engagement.

Fogmaker International appoints Johan Bjerstedt to drive growth

Fogmaker International AB, a leading supplier of fire suppression systems for engine compartments and enclosed spaces, is has announced Johan Bjerstedt as its new Sales and Marketing Manager, starting January 8th, 2024.

This appointment marks a pivotal moment in the company’s trajectory, coinciding with a period of significant growth and expansion.

Johan Bjerstedt brings a comprehensive background in the manufacturing sector, having occupied senior sales positions across various industries for many years.

His most recent role was Regional Sales Director for Europe at Konecranes Lift Trucks, where he amassed considerable expertise in the Material Handling field, a key area of focus for Fogmaker International.

Bjerstedt’s vision for Fogmaker International

Johan Bjerstedt, reflecting on his new role at Fogmaker International, said: “I have been working with B2B sales since 2003, during my past nine years in the global material handling industry, where I first learned about Fogmaker International. It will be exciting to widen my view of various industries.

“I chose to join Fogmaker International because I know it’s a good product from a great company, with a very interesting future and a lot of potential.”

Leadership insights and strategic growth

Lars Alrutz, who has served as both the CEO and Sales and Marketing Manager of Fogmaker International over the past year, welcomed Johan to the team.

Altruz said: “We are happy to welcome Johan Bjerstedt to the Fogmaker International team as our new Sales and Marketing Manager.

“Johan brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in sales within the manufacturing industry.

“His expertise in the material handling field will be invaluable in driving our growth and success.”

Lars Fredin, Group CEO at Dacke Industri and Chairman of Fogmaker International, also highlighted the strategic importance of this new appointment: “Strengthening the organization with Johan’s understanding of B2B sales and Lars assuming the role of CEO fully will open new possibilities for our expansion efforts and ensure the satisfaction of our customers worldwide.

“We will further solidify our position as a global leader in fire suppression systems for engine compartments and enclosed spaces as we continue to grow and achieve new milestones together.”

IFSJ Comment

The addition of Johan Bjerstedt as the new Sales and Marketing Manager at Fogmaker International signifies a forward-looking step in the company’s global strategy.

His extensive experience in B2B sales and the material handling industry is poised to enhance the company’s growth trajectory and reinforce its market leadership in fire suppression systems.

This strategic appointment underscores Fogmaker’s commitment to excellence and innovation, aligning with its vision to expand its reach and deliver unparalleled solutions to customers globally.

Vallfirest has announced the appointment of Jerzy F. Kotarba as the new EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) Area Manager.

This strategic move aims to enhance the company’s leadership and expand its reach in these critical regions.

Vallfirest’s evolution and global impact

Vallfirest has transformed from a distribution-focused entity to a manufacturing powerhouse in the firefighting sector.

Recognised as the sole provider of a comprehensive 360-degree solution for forest firefighting, the company’s offerings include Safety, Tools, Frontline, Trucks, and Aerial divisions.

Vallfirest has established a significant global presence, catering to forest firefighters around the world​​.

Jerzy F. Kotarba: Bringing expertise to Vallfirest

Jerzy F. Kotarba joins Vallfirest with over a decade of international sales experience in the firefighting sector.

His expertise aligns with Vallfirest’s commitment to innovating firefighting solutions. Kotarba’s multilingual skills are expected to enhance communication with partners and firefighters across the EMEA region.

His experience in leadership roles and as a volunteer firefighter demonstrates his deep dedication to the firefighting community.

Kotarba’s role will be crucial in supporting distributors and clients, ensuring the availability of Vallfirest’s solutions to the forest firefighting community in the EMEA region​​.

Vallfirest’s commitment to innovation and safety

Vallfirest has been at the forefront of addressing the evolving challenges posed by wildfires, which have increased in intensity and speed in recent years.

The company works closely with analysts and industry professionals worldwide, continually optimising tools and developing innovative equipment to enhance firefighting efficiency and effectiveness.

Vallfirest’s efforts are geared towards better protecting society and forestry ecosystems, aligning with the demands of 21st-century wildfires​​.

Expansion in the USA

In addition to strengthening its position in the EMEA region, Vallfirest has also expanded its operations in the United States.

The company opened its first office branch in Colorado, Fort Collins, featuring customer service, sales, and a production centre.

This expansion into the US market demonstrates Vallfirest’s commitment to providing personalized services and addressing the unique challenges of wildland firefighting in different regions​​.

IFSJ Comment

Vallfirest’s appointment of Jerzy F. Kotarba as the new EMEA Area Manager signifies a pivotal step in the company’s strategy to reinforce its international presence.

This move highlights the importance of experienced leadership and local expertise in navigating the complex and diverse requirements of the firefighting sector across different regions.

Vallfirest’s focus on innovation and adaptation to changing wildfire scenarios reflects a proactive approach in addressing global safety concerns.

The expansion into the US market and the strengthening of its leadership in the EMEA region underscore Vallfirest’s dedication to enhancing the effectiveness of wildland firefighting efforts worldwide.

This strategic alignment of leadership, innovation, and geographic expansion positions Vallfirest to make significant contributions to the safety and efficiency of firefighting operations globally.

Leadership continuity at FEU

The Federation of European Union Fire Officers (FEU) has announced the re-election of Stephan Wevers as President for a second consecutive three-year term.

This decision underscores the confidence placed in Wevers’ leadership and vision for the organisation.

FEU, comprising many European fire officer associations and state fire services, including those from the UK and Norway, is an independent professional body.

It plays a crucial role in the strategic management of Fire and Rescue Services across Europe.

Achievements and challenges in Wevers’ first term

Wevers’ first term as President was marked by a series of global crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and increasing forest fires.

Despite these challenges, Wevers proudly notes that FEU has learned from these crises and enhanced its knowledge and skills exchange through joint actions with its members.

This aligns with one of FEU’s core programmes, the Exchange of Experts and Knowledge.

Furthermore, Wevers has addressed global issues such as sustainability, diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and energy transition, organising special seminars and issuing joint statements on these topics.

Vision for the future and development of key programmes

Under Wevers’ leadership, FEU’s vision has seen significant development, particularly in its Leadership and The Voice pillars.

The Officer Development Program, launched in spring 2022 and followed up in June 2023, with registrations for the 2024 edition forthcoming, exemplifies this progress.

Wevers emphasises the importance of FEU as a strong voice for fire and rescue services at both European and global levels, focusing on organisational, managerial, and strategic issues.

His vision for the second term includes further growth of FEU’s membership, aiming to create a broad international network and spread FEU’s values of sharing, inspiring, and improving more widely.

Background of Stephan J.M. Wevers

Stephan J.M. Wevers represents the Fire Service from the Netherlands.

He holds a position as CFO at Brandweer Twente in Enschede and is a past president of the Netherlands Fire Service.

His reappointment as FEU President is a testament to his leadership and the respect he commands in the European fire and rescue community.

IFSJ Comment

The re-election of Stephan Wevers as President of the Federation of European Union Fire Officers signifies a period of stability and continued progress for the organisation.

Wevers’ first term was distinguished by adept handling of unprecedented global challenges, showcasing his ability to lead and innovate under pressure.

His emphasis on knowledge exchange and collaboration, particularly during crises, has not only strengthened FEU’s position but also reinforced the importance of international cooperation in fire and rescue services.

Looking ahead, Wevers’ focus on expanding FEU’s membership and influence promises to enhance the organisation’s role as a pivotal voice in fire safety and rescue operations.

His commitment to sustainability, diversity, and inclusion aligns with the broader goals of the fire and rescue community, ensuring that FEU remains at the forefront of strategic and progressive leadership in this critical field.