BSIF appoints John Hooker as new CEO

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafety

Leadership transition at British Safety Industry Federation

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has announced that John Hooker will become its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in the summer of 2025.

He will succeed Alan Murray, who has led the organisation for 11 years.

Alan Murray said: “After 11 thoroughly enjoyable years at BSIF, I am delighted to pass the baton on to someone of John’s calibre, who will lead the Federation in its next important phases of development, serving the safety industry in the UK.”

John Hooker’s experience in safety and certification

John Hooker currently serves as the Chief Executive of SATRA Technology Centre Ltd, where he has played a key role in enhancing the organisation’s personal protective equipment (PPE) certification and testing capabilities.

Since joining SATRA in 2015 as Executive Director, he has overseen the development of its Century House test equipment manufacturing facility.

His career began in engineering before transitioning to operations and commercial general management.

He has held board positions in manufacturing and service companies across regulated industries, including the medical device and automotive sectors.

BSIF’s focus on workplace safety

The BSIF is the UK’s leading trade body for the safety and health industry, working with manufacturers, suppliers, and regulators to improve workplace safety.

The Federation supports businesses in ensuring compliance with safety standards and the supply of certified PPE and safety equipment.

John Hooker said: “I am very excited to be joining the BSIF and really looking forward to supporting the leading PPE and Safety Equipment businesses, as well as the broader market, in improving workplace safety and health across the UK.”

Next steps for BSIF under new leadership

John Hooker will officially take over as CEO in the summer of 2025.

His leadership is expected to guide BSIF’s ongoing efforts in promoting safety standards and supporting industry advancements.

Alan Murray’s departure marks the end of more than a decade leading the organisation.

BSIF has expressed confidence in Hooker’s ability to continue its mission of improving workplace safety across the UK.

BSIF appoints John Hooker as new CEO: Summary

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has announced that John Hooker will become its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in the summer of 2025, taking over from Alan Murray.

Hooker currently leads SATRA Technology Centre Ltd and has extensive experience in PPE certification, testing, and regulated industries.

BSIF supports workplace safety by working with manufacturers, suppliers, and regulators to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Hooker has expressed enthusiasm for his new role and aims to continue BSIF’s efforts in improving workplace safety across the UK.

SOCOTEC Middle East appoints Lana Benny as senior fire engineer

by Featured NewsPeople

Lana Benny joins SOCOTEC Middle East fire engineering team

SOCOTEC Middle East has announced the appointment of Lana Benny as senior fire engineer.

Benny will contribute to the company’s fire and life safety services, focusing on fire engineering solutions for the construction and infrastructure sectors.

Benny’s background in fire protection engineering

Benny has expertise in fire and smoke modelling, fire risk assessment, and regulatory-compliant fire protection strategies.

She holds a master’s degree in fire protection engineering from the University of Maryland and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Heriot-Watt University.

Previous experience in fire safety projects

Benny has worked on various fire safety projects, including the NY Korea Center, Marjan Offshore Platform, and Expo 2020 pavilions.

She has been a fire protection consultant at TERPconsulting in New York City and is a member of SFPE and IFE.

SOCOTEC Middle East’s fire safety capabilities

SOCOTEC Middle East provides fire and life safety consultancy services across construction and infrastructure projects.

Benny’s appointment is part of the company’s expansion in fire engineering expertise to support its clients in these sectors.

SOCOTEC Middle East appoints Lana Benny as senior fire engineer: Summary

SOCOTEC Middle East has appointed Lana Benny as senior fire engineer. Benny specialises in fire and smoke modelling, fire risk assessment, and code-compliant fire protection approaches.

She holds a master’s degree in fire protection engineering from the University of Maryland and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Heriot-Watt University. Her past projects include the NY Korea Center, Marjan Offshore Platform, and Expo 2020 pavilions.

Previously, she was a fire protection consultant at TERPconsulting in New York City. She is a member of SFPE and IFE.

SOCOTEC Middle East provides fire and life safety services to the construction and infrastructure sectors. Benny’s appointment supports the company’s expansion in fire engineering expertise.

London Fire Brigade’s longest-serving fire investigation dog retires after 12 years

by Breaking NewsPeopleSearch and Rescue

Fire investigation dog Sherlock retires after 12-year career

London Fire Brigade has announced the retirement of its longest-serving fire investigation dog, Sherlock, following 12 years of service.

Sherlock, a Working Cocker Spaniel born in 2012, joined the Brigade at just ten weeks old and was certified as a fire investigation dog in 2013.

Over his career, he attended numerous incidents, including the Grenfell Tower fire, and assisted in key investigations.

Sherlock’s role involved detecting ignitable substances at fire scenes, aiding fire investigators in determining causes.

In recent years, he became an ambassador for fire safety, attending community events to promote awareness.

Sherlock’s training and contributions to fire investigations

The London Fire Brigade selects fire investigation dogs based on their strong drive to play, using positive reinforcement techniques during training.

Sherlock was trained to detect up to 10 different ignitable liquids, such as petrol and acetone, in various states.

Throughout his career, he attended major fire scenes, including a serious incident in Tottenham where two firefighters were injured and a murder investigation in New Malden.

His work supported fire investigators in determining causes and contributing to safety measures.

Retirement and continued care for Sherlock

Sherlock will retire at home with his handler, Group Commander Paul Osborne, who has cared for him throughout his service.

The London Retired Police Dogs Trust (LRPD) will provide financial support for his ongoing care.

Osborne said: “Following an illustrious and decorated career, Sherlock will be stepping down from LFB.

“He has been working at the Brigade for 12 years, and in that time has been influential in maintaining our dog handling capability way beyond his tenure as well as showing the other dogs the ropes.”

He added: “In dog years, Sherlock is 100 years old, so it’s only fitting for him to hang up his boots now and take a well-earned break.”

Fire investigation team continues its work

Despite Sherlock’s retirement, the London Fire Brigade’s Fire Investigation team continues its work with two other trained dogs.

Simba, aged eight, and Smokey, aged three, will remain in service, supporting fire investigations both within and outside of London.

Fire investigation dogs typically serve for around 10 years and undergo annual training refreshers to maintain their detection skills.

London Fire Brigade’s Sherlock retires after 12 years of service: Summary

London Fire Brigade has confirmed the retirement of its longest-serving fire investigation dog, Sherlock, after 12 years.

Born in 2012, Sherlock joined the Brigade as a puppy and was certified in 2013.

Over his career, he attended incidents, including the Grenfell Tower fire, and assisted investigators by detecting ignitable substances.

Sherlock’s training allowed him to identify up to 10 different substances, supporting fire scene analysis.

In recent years, he transitioned to a role as a fire safety ambassador.

Now retired, Sherlock will live with his handler, Group Commander Paul Osborne, who has cared for him throughout his career.

The London Retired Police Dogs Trust will provide financial support for his care.

The Brigade’s fire investigation team continues its work with two other dogs, Simba and Smokey, who remain in active service.

Fire investigation dogs typically serve for around 10 years and receive ongoing training to maintain their skills.

NFPA appoints Fernando Escalante to lead international business development in Latin America

by Featured NewsPeople

Escalante to oversee NFPA growth and partnerships in Latin America

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has appointed Fernando Escalante as its new manager of International Business Development for Latin America.

Escalante will be responsible for expanding NFPA’s presence in the region, working with key stakeholders across the fire, electrical, and life safety sectors.

His role includes strengthening partnerships and increasing engagement with government agencies, industry associations, and private sector organisations.

Industry experience and NFPA expertise

Escalante has a background in electrical engineering and nearly two decades of leadership experience with Schneider Electric.

His previous roles included managing regional projects and developing business growth strategies through partnerships.

In addition to his corporate experience, Escalante has served as an instructor for NFPA 70, the National Electrical Code (NEC), providing training on NFPA standards and their implementation.

His knowledge of electrical safety regulations and industry best practices aligns with NFPA’s efforts to enhance fire and life safety in Latin America.

Leadership perspective on safety and collaboration

Olga Caledonia, director of International Business Development at NFPA, said: “Fernando’s extensive industry knowledge and leadership in the Latin American market will be instrumental in advancing the NFPA mission.

“We are excited to have him lead our international business development efforts in the region, helping to foster collaboration and drive the use of NFPA standards and resources.”

Escalante stated that he looks forward to working with industry leaders across Latin America to enhance fire, electrical, and life safety standards.

He emphasised the importance of NFPA’s role in supporting safety initiatives worldwide.

Focus on engagement and regional initiatives

Based in Costa Rica, Escalante will work closely with government bodies and industry professionals to support training and the implementation of NFPA standards.

His responsibilities include expanding educational initiatives and collaborating on fire safety regulations.

NFPA continues to develop its presence in Latin America by engaging with local stakeholders to promote the adoption of its safety standards.

The organisation provides resources and training to support fire protection, electrical safety, and risk reduction efforts.

NFPA appoints Fernando Escalante to lead international business development in Latin America: Summary

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has appointed Fernando Escalante as manager of International Business Development for Latin America.

His role includes expanding NFPA’s partnerships and presence in the region, working with key stakeholders in fire, electrical, and life safety.

Escalante has extensive industry experience, having worked for nearly two decades with Schneider Electric and served as an instructor for NFPA 70, the National Electrical Code (NEC).

NFPA director Olga Caledonia said his leadership would help drive collaboration and increase the use of NFPA standards.

Based in Costa Rica, Escalante will work with government agencies, industry associations, and private sector organisations to support fire and life safety initiatives.

His appointment is part of NFPA’s broader efforts to promote training and improve safety standards across Latin America.

Streamlight names Michael F. Dineen as new President

by Breaking NewsPeople

Michael F. Dineen takes on new leadership role

Streamlight has announced the promotion of Michael F. Dineen to the position of president.

He previously served as chief revenue officer and succeeds Raymond L. Sharrah, who will continue as chief executive officer, providing overall corporate oversight.

Dineen joined Streamlight in 2009 as vice president of sales and marketing, managing the company’s sales efforts across multiple sectors, including law enforcement, sporting goods, industrial, military, federal government, automotive, and fire/EMS.

In 2022, he was appointed chief revenue officer, taking on additional responsibilities in materials and operations.

Dineen’s background and industry experience

Before joining Streamlight, Dineen spent 17 years at MSA Safety, where he held various sales leadership roles.

His responsibilities included managing sales teams and contributing to product development and marketing strategies for public safety, military, and industrial markets.

At MSA Safety, he served as director of sales for North American first responder markets and was previously northern North America sales manager for the fire service market.

His experience in these sectors aligns with key areas of Streamlight’s business.

Expanded responsibilities as president

In his new role, Dineen will continue overseeing sales and marketing while also taking on leadership of product management, accounting and finance, and IT operations.

His responsibilities will include strategic planning and corporate leadership across these areas.

Sharrah stated: “Mike’s deep understanding of our business, combined with his forward-thinking approach to leadership, makes him the ideal candidate to lead Streamlight into its next phase of growth.”

Education and professional qualifications

Dineen holds a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems from Saint Joseph’s University and an MBA with a focus in marketing from Seton Hall University.

Streamlight names Michael F. Dineen as new president: Summary

Streamlight has promoted Michael F. Dineen to president.

He was previously chief revenue officer and has been with the company since 2009.

He succeeds Raymond L. Sharrah, who will remain as CEO.

Dineen previously worked at MSA Safety for 17 years in sales and leadership roles across the public safety, military, and industrial markets.

At Streamlight, he has overseen sales, marketing, materials, and operations.

As president, he will continue to lead sales and marketing while taking on responsibility for product management, finance, and IT.

Sharrah described Dineen as a strong leader with a deep understanding of the business.

Dineen holds degrees from Saint Joseph’s University and Seton Hall University.

Erick Bellefleur appointed CEO of INNOTEX as Claude Barbeau retires

by Featured NewsPeoplePPE

Leadership transition at INNOTEX

INNOTEX has announced that Erick Bellefleur has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer, effective 18 February 2025.

He takes over from Claude Barbeau, who will retire in April 2025.

Bellefleur brings over 30 years of experience in general management, strategic planning, and business development in the industrial manufacturing sector.

His previous roles include Senior Vice-President of Michelin’s off-road business and CEO of Camso Inc.

Louis Carpentier, Executive Chairman of INNOTEX, said: “We are excited to have Erick on board to lead INNOTEX into the company’s next stage of growth.

“He came from organisations with similar corporate values and systems as INNOTEX.

“He is a charismatic leader and a team player. I very much look forward to working with Erick.”

Background and experience of the new CEO

Bellefleur has worked across manufacturing, marketing, R&D, supply chain, B2B sales, and mergers and acquisitions.

His previous leadership roles focused on operational efficiency, strategic growth, and customer-focused initiatives.

Commenting on his appointment, Bellefleur said: “INNOTEX has proven its ability to innovate and adapt in the fire and rescue industry through its people that hold a passion towards its customers. I’m honoured to lead this team into a bright future.”

Retirement of Claude Barbeau

Barbeau has served as CEO of INNOTEX for a decade and will step down in April 2025.

Reflecting on his tenure, he said: “It has been an incredible honour to lead INNOTEX over the past 10 years.

This exceptional company has a bright future ahead, and I look forward to spending more time with my family, travelling, and continuing to support INNOTEX.”

Carpentier acknowledged Barbeau’s contributions: “Claude has elevated innovation at INNOTEX by introducing flagship products and leading a production overhaul that drove sustained growth.

“We wish his well-earned retirement is as rewarding and satisfying as his career.”

About INNOTEX

Founded in 1999, INNOTEX designs, develops, and manufactures fire-protective turnout gear, multifunctional rescue gear, and protective hoods and gloves.

The company produces protective clothing for American firefighters in the United States.

Erick Bellefleur appointed CEO of INNOTEX as Claude Barbeau retires: Summary

INNOTEX has announced the appointment of Erick Bellefleur as its new CEO, effective 18 February 2025.

He succeeds Claude Barbeau, who will retire in April 2025 after a decade in the role.

Bellefleur has over 30 years of experience in industrial manufacturing, previously serving as Senior Vice-President of Michelin’s off-road business and CEO of Camso Inc.

He has expertise in manufacturing, marketing, R&D, supply chain, B2B sales, and mergers and acquisitions.

Barbeau expressed gratitude for his tenure and plans to continue supporting the company.

INNOTEX Executive Chairman Louis Carpentier highlighted Barbeau’s contributions to innovation and growth.

Founded in 1999, INNOTEX manufactures fire-protective turnout gear, rescue gear, and protective equipment for firefighters in the United States.

Acorn Safety Services hires fire safety expert Julian Dean

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

Julian Dean joins Acorn Safety Services

Acorn Safety Services has appointed Julian Dean as its new fire safety manager.

Dean has 15 years of experience in fire safety, having worked as a Fire Risk Assessor and Business Development Manager.

He has conducted fire risk assessments for various clients, including television personalities Jeremy Clarkson and James May.

Dean appeared in series two, episode six of Clarkson’s Farm, where he carried out a fire risk assessment at the Diddly Squat Farm Shop.

He has also assessed fire risks for Clarkson’s newly opened pub, The Farmer’s Dog, and May’s boutique hotel, The Royal Oak in Wiltshire.

Fire risk assessments for high-profile clients

Dean’s experience includes conducting fire risk assessments at Wycombe Wanderers FC and other commercial properties.

Speaking about his involvement with Clarkson’s Farm, Dean said: “I was working for a local housing association, and they pick up work occasionally from West Oxfordshire Council.

“They asked if there was a fire risk assessor available and I went along not knowing as I’d never seen the programme. I was portrayed as the irritating fire inspector.”

He is expected to feature in series four of the show, which is set to be released in May.

New role at Acorn Safety Services

Dean has now joined Acorn Safety Services and is looking forward to bringing his expertise to the company.

He said: “It’s great to be part of a lovely team of people again as before Acorn Safety I was working for myself for a year. The team have been really welcoming.”

Acorn Safety Services provides fire risk assessments and other safety consultancy services across the UK.

The company aims to support businesses in maintaining compliance with fire safety regulations.

Company welcomes new appointment

Operations manager Zeynep Guzelkasap said: “Julian is a fantastic addition to the team.

“He is very skilled and experienced and we are delighted to have him on board.

“We’ll all be looking out for him in the next season of Clarkson’s Farm too and look forward to supporting him with these high profile clients.”

Acorn Safety Services hires fire safety expert Julian Dean: Summary

Acorn Safety Services has appointed Julian Dean as its new fire safety manager.

Dean has 15 years of experience in the industry and has conducted fire risk assessments for businesses, sports facilities, and well-known figures, including Jeremy Clarkson and James May.

Dean previously featured in Clarkson’s Farm while carrying out a fire risk assessment at Diddly Squat Farm Shop.

He has also assessed Clarkson’s pub, The Farmer’s Dog, and May’s hotel, The Royal Oak.

He is expected to appear in series four of the show, which will be released in May.

Dean expressed enthusiasm about joining Acorn Safety Services after working independently.

The company’s operations manager, Zeynep Guzelkasap, welcomed him to the team, highlighting his experience and expertise.

Acorn Safety Services provides fire risk assessments and consultancy across the UK.

CTEH announces promotions in toxicology and industrial hygiene

by Featured NewsPeople

Five team members elevated to principal roles

CTEH has announced the promotion of five team members to principal roles within its toxicology and industrial hygiene divisions.

The company has named Chris Kuhlman, PhD, CIH, DABT, as principal toxicologist; Cole Ledbetter, CIH, CSP, as principal industrial hygienist; Tami McMullin, PhD, as principal toxicologist; Pablo Sanchez Soria, PhD, CIH, as principal toxicologist; and Shawn Wnek, PhD, CIH, DABT, as principal toxicologist.

Chase Selby, president of CTEH, said: “These appointments reflect the unparalleled dedication and expertise of our team members, as well as the significant value they bring to our clients and communities we serve.

“In their roles as principals, they will continue to guide our teams and provide innovative, data-driven solutions to the challenges our clients face.”

Leadership appointments across multiple locations

The newly promoted principals are based in different regions across the United States.

Chris Kuhlman, PhD, CIH, DABT, based in Little Rock, Arkansas, serves as director of CTEH’s emergency response sciences program.

He has expertise in occupational and environmental toxicology, industrial hygiene, and human health risk assessment.

Cole Ledbetter, CIH, CSP, also based in Little Rock, Arkansas, has more than 19 years of experience in industrial hygiene and serves as a director of industrial hygiene services.

Tami McMullin, PhD, based in Golden, Colorado, specializes in public health, regulatory toxicology, and risk assessment.

She also serves as director of applied public health.

Expertise in toxicology and industrial hygiene

Each of the promoted individuals brings extensive experience in their respective fields.

Pablo Sanchez Soria, PhD, CIH, based in Little Rock, Arkansas, has expertise in human and environmental toxicology, emergency response toxicology, and complex industrial hygiene challenges.

He also serves as a director of health sciences.

Shawn Wnek, PhD, CIH, DABT, based in Little Rock, Arkansas, has over 15 years of experience in risk assessment, chemical emergency response, and toxicology.

He also serves as a director of health sciences.

Recognition of contributions and future impact

CTEH leadership acknowledged the contributions of the promoted team members and their ongoing role in advancing the company’s mission.

Dr. Glenn Millner, co-founder and principal at CTEH, said: “Each of these individuals exemplifies the core values of CTEH: scientific excellence, integrity, and collaboration.

“I have the utmost confidence in each of these principals that they will carry on CTEH’s legacy.

“Their leadership will help propel our company forward as we continue to expand our impact worldwide.”

CTEH announces promotions in toxicology and industrial hygiene: Summary

CTEH has promoted five professionals to principal roles in its toxicology and industrial hygiene divisions.

Chris Kuhlman, PhD, CIH, DABT; Cole Ledbetter, CIH, CSP; Tami McMullin, PhD; Pablo Sanchez Soria, PhD, CIH; and Shawn Wnek, PhD, CIH, DABT, have taken on leadership positions within the organisation.

The appointments span multiple locations, with team members based in Arkansas and Colorado.

Their areas of expertise include occupational and environmental toxicology, industrial hygiene, public health, and risk assessment.

CTEH leadership stated that these promotions reflect the expertise and contributions of the individuals and their role in supporting the company’s scientific and health-related services.

Amthal appoints Richard Parker as Group Head of Sales to lead sales operations

by Featured NewsFire DetectionPeople

Richard Parker joins Amthal as Group Head of Sales

Amthal Group Companies has appointed Richard Parker as its new Group Head of Sales.

Parker brings over 30 years of experience in the fire and security sector, having held senior sales leadership roles at Chubb Fire & Security and Walker Fire UK Ltd.

In his new position, he will oversee Amthal’s sales operations, focusing on business development, client relationships, and revenue growth.

According to Amthal, Parker’s appointment aligns with the company’s growth strategy in the fire and security sector.

Extensive experience in fire and security sales

Before joining Amthal, Parker was Group Sales Manager UK at Walker Fire UK Ltd., where he led sales teams and contributed to business expansion across multiple sectors.

He previously spent three decades at Chubb Fire & Security in senior leadership roles, including Sales Director and National Accounts Sales Manager.

His responsibilities included managing multi-disciplined teams, implementing strategic sales initiatives, and exceeding revenue targets.

Focus on sales strategy and client relationships

Parker stated: “Joining Amthal presents a great opportunity to apply my experience in sales leadership and business development in an ambitious and growing organisation.

“My focus will be on aligning the sales strategy with the company’s vision, developing long-term customer relationships, and ensuring our team delivers outstanding service and solutions.”

Amthal confirmed that Parker’s leadership will contribute to its long-term growth strategy by strengthening customer engagement and enhancing service delivery.

Company leadership welcomes new appointment

Amthal Group Companies’ CEO Jamie Allam commented: “Richard’s experience and leadership in sales strategy align well with Amthal’s growth objectives.

“We look forward to his contributions in enhancing our sales operations and driving sustainable success for the company.”

The company stated that Parker’s appointment reflects its commitment to expanding its presence in the UK’s fire and security sector.

Amthal appoints Richard Parker as Group Head of Sales to lead sales operations: Summary

Amthal Group Companies has appointed Richard Parker as its new Group Head of Sales.

Parker brings over three decades of experience in the fire and security industry, having held senior leadership roles at Chubb Fire & Security and Walker Fire UK Ltd.

His responsibilities at Amthal will include overseeing sales operations, driving business growth, and strengthening client relationships.

Parker highlighted his commitment to aligning sales strategy with the company’s vision and ensuring strong customer engagement.

Amthal CEO Jamie Allam welcomed Parker’s appointment, stating that his leadership aligns with the company’s expansion plans.

The company views the new hire as part of its strategy to enhance its position in the UK’s fire and security sector.

Johnson Controls appoints Joakim Weidemanis as CEO

by Featured NewsPeople

Leadership transition at Johnson Controls

Johnson Controls has announced that Joakim Weidemanis will take over as Chief Executive Officer on 12 March 2025 following the company’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.

Weidemanis will succeed George R. Oliver, who will remain as Non-Executive Chairman of the Board until 31 July 2025.

At that point, Mark P. Vergnano, a member of the Johnson Controls Board since 2016, will assume the position of Chairman.

Oliver will continue as an advisor to the company until 31 December 2025 to support the leadership transition.

According to Johnson Controls, Weidemanis brings extensive experience in leading global technology-driven businesses, having spent 13 years at Danaher Corporation in executive roles.

Board perspectives on the leadership change

Jürgen Tinggren, lead independent director of the Johnson Controls Board, stated that the selection of Weidemanis aligns with the company’s long-term strategy: “The Board identified Joakim as uniquely suited to lead Johnson Controls during its next chapter of growth as a pure-play provider of comprehensive solutions for commercial buildings.”

Tinggren added that Oliver’s leadership positioned the company for future opportunities: “As we have made substantial progress in our transformation, George has set the stage for Johnson Controls to capitalise on the opportunities ahead.”

Oliver, who has led the company for eight years, expressed confidence in the transition, stating that Johnson Controls has become “a simpler, more profitable and faster-growing company” under his tenure.

Weidemanis’ experience and outlook

Weidemanis most recently served as Executive Vice President, Diagnostics and China at Danaher Corporation.

He was responsible for an approximately $15 billion group comprising eight global technology businesses.

Over his 30-year career, Weidemanis has also held leadership positions at Mettler Toledo and ABB, gaining experience in the United States, Europe, and Asia.

On his new role, Weidemanis said: “I am energized by its mission-driven culture and strong 140-year legacy of developing market-leading technology and solutions that enable customers to manage their facilities in a smarter, more sustainable and more productive way.”

Financial outlook and Board leadership changes

In a separate announcement, Johnson Controls reported fiscal first quarter 2025 earnings results and issued financial guidance for the second quarter and full year.

Additionally, the company confirmed that Mark P. Vergnano will become Chairman of the Board after Oliver steps down from the role in July 2025.

Vergnano has held leadership positions at Chemours and DuPont and serves as a director at Waters Corporation.

Johnson Controls appoints Joakim Weidemanis as CEO: Summary

Johnson Controls has appointed Joakim Weidemanis as CEO, effective 12 March 2025, following the company’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.

He will succeed George R. Oliver, who will remain Non-Executive Chairman until 31 July 2025, before being succeeded by Mark P. Vergnano.

Weidemanis has extensive experience in global technology businesses, having served as Executive Vice President at Danaher Corporation.

He has also held leadership positions at Mettler Toledo and ABB.

Jürgen Tinggren, lead independent director of the Johnson Controls Board, stated that Weidemanis is well-suited to lead the company’s next phase of growth.

Oliver will continue as an advisor until 31 December 2025.

Johnson Controls also announced fiscal first quarter 2025 earnings results and issued updated financial guidance.

The company confirmed that Vergnano will assume the role of Chairman later in the year.