New assistant chief fire officer for Avon Fire & Rescue Service: Luke Gazzard takes on new role

by Featured NewsPeople

Avon Fire & Rescue Service announces new assistant chief fire officer

Avon Fire & Rescue Service has announced the appointment of Luke Gazzard as the new Assistant Chief Fire Officer for Service Delivery.

Luke Gazzard, who has over 25 years of dedicated service with the organisation, assumed the position this month.

In his new role, Gazzard will lead the Service’s operational response, overseeing operational firefighters, control operators, and the Prevention and Protection Departments.

He will also be part of the Service Leadership Board.

Luke Gazzard’s career and vision for the role

Luke Gazzard expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating: “After a tough recruitment process, I’m excited to have been successfully appointed as the Assistant Chief Fire Officer for Service Delivery.

“As I take on this new role, I’m keen to ensure that people, professionalism, and pride are the golden thread through everything I do.”

Gazzard has been with Avon Fire & Rescue Service since 1999, starting as a firefighter on Avonmouth Red Watch.

He has served in various capacities, including roles at Southmead, Bath, and Patchway, and as a Station Manager in Learning and Development.

He also worked in Risk Intelligence and was the Area Manager Head of Operational Response before leading the Service Improvement Team over the past year.

Support from leadership

Chief Fire Officer Simon Shilton expressed his support for Gazzard’s appointment, saying: “We are thrilled to have Luke accept this position within the Service.

Luke brings a wealth of experience to the Service Leadership Board.

His passion and dedication to the sector will be vital in driving our Service forward.”

Shilton also noted the competitive nature of the recruitment process, highlighting Gazzard’s exceptional performance and leadership skills.

He added: “I look forward to working with him closely to make our Service stronger and our communities safer.”

Luke Gazzard’s goals for the future

Looking ahead, Luke Gazzard is focused on continuing to influence positive changes within the Service.

He remarked: “Throughout my career, I’ve seen many changes in Avon Fire and Rescue Service and the wider sector.

I’m looking forward to working closely with all of our staff to influence our journey as we move forward.

As I join the Service Leadership Board, I’m excited to be a part of the strategic change as we work towards being the best Service that we can be.”

Gazzard’s appointment is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the operational and strategic initiatives of Avon Fire & Rescue Service, ensuring that the organisation continues to evolve and improve.

CTIF Executive Committee expands with new appointments

by Associations and OrganisationsPeople

New appointments announced at CTIF Delegates Assembly

The CTIF Executive Committee convened in Oslo on June 20, 2024, to form a new Executive Commission.

During this meeting, a new vice president and a new Treasurer were elected, as reported by CTIF.

The number of Vice Presidents in the Executive Committee has now increased from seven to eight following an official vote at the Delegates Assembly in Vienna in 2023.

The newly elected members of the Executive Commission include Tom Van Esbroeck from Belgium, who will serve as the new Treasurer starting January 2025.

The meeting in Oslo marks the first physical gathering of the Executive Committee since the pandemic, with previous meetings being held online since 2019.

Regular meetings of the CTIF Executive Committee

The CTIF Executive Committee meets physically at least twice a year to oversee ongoing projects, actions, and the work of CTIF commissions.

These meetings also serve to prepare proposals for submission to the Delegates’ Assembly.

In addition to the biannual physical meetings, the committee has been holding monthly video conferences since 2019.

During the pandemic from 2020 to 2021, all committee meetings were conducted virtually.

The shift to frequent online meetings has allowed the committee to maintain regular communication and oversight of ongoing projects despite the restrictions.

Composition of the new Executive Committee

The newly formed Executive Committee features members from various countries, representing a diverse group of fire and safety professionals.

Members include Nedeljko Vukalović from Croatia, Marc Mamer from Luxembourg, Dennis Davis from the UK, Milan Dubravac from Slovenia, Tom Van Esbroeck from Belgium, Zisoula Ntasiou from Greece, Bjorn Ulfsson from Sweden/Canada, Roman Sykora from Austria, Martin Nekula from the Czech Republic, Christophe Marchal from France, Yvonne Näsman from Sweden, Taina Hanhihoski from Finland, Otto Drozd from the USA, and Luc Faes from Belgium.

The CTIF Staff Secretary, Neza Strmole from Slovenia, was not present.

EmiControls announces new management with Martin Eppacher as new head

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionPeople

Martin Eppacher takes over EmiControls management

As reported by EmiControls, Martin Eppacher has taken over the management of the company as of 1 June 2024.

He succeeds Patrick Danielsson, who is leaving the company to pursue new professional challenges.

Erich Gummerer, Chairman of the Board of Directors of EmiControls and Managing Director of the parent company TechnoAlpin, commented on the transition: “With Martin Eppacher, we are gaining an experienced manager who will drive and further accelerate EmiControls’ growth path through his technical know-how and strong leadership qualities.

“We would like to thank Patrick Danielsson for his outstanding contribution to building the company over the past few years.

“We regret his decision and wish him all the best for his professional and private future.”

Eppacher’s background and experience

Martin Eppacher brings over 20 years of experience within the TechnoAlpin Group to his new role.

He has held various management positions, including Managing Director of TechnoAlpin Austria GmbH.

Prior to joining EmiControls, he was responsible for global sales and project management at TechnoAlpin as Executive Sales Manager.

Eppacher holds a degree in electrical engineering from the Technical University of Bologna.

His career began in engineering offices before he joined the TechnoAlpin Group, where he worked in several management roles, demonstrating his expertise and leadership skills.

Vision for EmiControls’ future

Eppacher expressed his enthusiasm for his new role at EmiControls: “I am very much looking forward to the new challenges at EmiControls and the opportunity to actively shape the future direction and development of the company.”

He acknowledged the innovative developments EmiControls has introduced in recent years, noting their significance in the context of the energy transition and changes in fire protection, recycling, and dust control.

Transition period and future plans

The transition from Danielsson to Eppacher is seen as a strategic move to continue the company’s growth and innovation.

EmiControls aims to maintain its trajectory of bringing new solutions to the market, especially as global demands evolve in the areas of fire protection and environmental management.

Gummerer emphasized the company’s gratitude towards Danielsson’s contributions and expressed confidence in Eppacher’s ability to lead EmiControls into its next phase of growth and development.

Read IFSJ’s exclusive article looking at EmiControls’ EV suppression solution, the Q-Container.

Niki Smith appointed as People & Culture Director at Advanced

by Featured NewsPeople

Advanced welcomes new HR leader

Niki Smith has joined the leadership team at Advanced as the new People & Culture Director.

As reported by Advanced, Smith brings over 20 years of experience in human resources, having worked across various sectors including local authority, charity, higher education, and manufacturing.

Prior to joining Advanced, Smith led the European HR function within the industrial chain business at Renold Plc, an international engineering group.

Her role included overseeing teams across Germany, Spain, and the UK.

Smith also held roles at Canon UK and access solutions company ASSA ABLOY, managing global talent pipelines.

Focus on strategic HR initiatives

At Advanced, Smith’s primary focus will be on aligning HR strategies with the company’s business priorities.

She aims to accelerate strategic HR initiatives to support Advanced’s growth and will concentrate on recruitment strategies to attract top talent.

Smith is also tasked with expanding the company’s diverse and inclusive team in line with Advanced’s core values and business objectives.

Her extensive background in corporate HR practices is expected to be pivotal in achieving these goals.

Management’s perspective on the new appointment

Speaking about Smith’s appointment, Managing Director Antonio Telesca said: “The development of our company culture and the nurturing of talent within our organisation are central to our growth strategy.

“We are delighted to welcome Niki to Advanced! Her practical approach and passion for HR will allow us to drive the delivery of the many people-focused initiatives we have planned in our pursuit of ‘Creating a Safer, Sustainable Future’.”

Telesca highlighted that Smith’s expertise would be instrumental in driving Advanced’s HR initiatives and supporting the company’s long-term objectives.

Kentec Electronics appoints Mike Estall as senior specification development manager

by Featured NewsFire DetectionPeople

Mike Estall joins Kentec Electronics

Kentec Electronics, a manufacturer of life safety solutions, has appointed Mike Estall as Senior Specification Development Manager, as reported by Kentec.

Mike Estall has over 25 years of experience in building solutions, fire systems, and integration with other building platforms.

He will be sharing his knowledge through a series of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses for Kentec customers and partners.

The first session will be delivered at the NAHFO conference in June.

Extensive industry experience

Prior to joining Kentec, Estall worked as the Director of Fire Engineering at the TenBroeke Engineering Company and Specification Development Director at BBC Fire — Marlow Fire & Security.

His extensive experience includes designing fire alarm and safety systems, developing detailed site surveys, writing comprehensive specifications in line with UK standards, and conducting fire risk assessments.

He is also a member of the Institute of Fire Engineers (IFE) and the Institute of Fire Safety Managers (IFSM).

Kentec Electronics’ expectations

Derrick Hall, Director of Sales & Marketing at Kentec Electronics, expressed his anticipation of Estall’s contributions: “Mike’s appointment comes at a time of increased complexity within the industry, so his insights will be invaluable to our specifiers, consultants, partners and end-users.”

Estall shared his enthusiasm for his new role: “I am delighted to be joining Kentec Electronics at a key point in its growth, to share my knowledge of fire safety and Current British Standards with consultants and end-users who are using Kentec Electronic Solutions.”

Upcoming CPD session at NAHFO conference

Estall will be delivering a CPD session on BS7273-4 at the NAHFO conference from June 3-5.

This session is part of Kentec’s initiative to enhance industry knowledge and compliance with fire safety standards.

Promat announces new commercial director and national specification manager

by Featured NewsPeople

Promat’s new leadership team

As reported by Promat, the passive fire protection specialist has appointed a new commercial director and a new national specification manager.

Joshua Slack, previously the National Specification Manager for three years, is now the commercial director.

In his new role, he will oversee the Promat specification and commercial sales teams, driving sales growth in the UK.

With nearly eight years at Promat and an IFE Level 3 Certificate in Passive Fire Protection, Josh has extensive experience in the specification and application of passive fire protection products.

He also has a background as a chartered surveyor.

Harvey Brown’s new role

Harvey Brown, formerly the Architectural Specification Manager, has been named the new National Specification Manager.

Harvey has been with Promat for five years and has considerable experience in supporting architects and specification managers in designing passive fire protection solutions.

In his new role, Harvey will lead a team of specification managers to assist designers in developing solutions that meet specific project requirements.

His expertise will be crucial in ensuring the accuracy and effectiveness of fire protection designs.

Commitment to safety and compliance

Josh Slack commented on the company’s dedication: “Promat is dedicated to providing the highest levels of support throughout the specification process to ensure that passive fire protection systems are correctly specified and meet the required safety standards.”

He also noted the industry’s changing landscape: “This is a time of change for the passive fire protection industry with the recent introduction of the Building Safety Act and the need for early specification.

“The specification team at Promat is heavily invested in offering the support needed to raise standards for life-critical products and to support the drive to ensure greater compliance and safer buildings.”

Association for Project Safety announces Andrew Leslie as interim CEO

by Featured NewsPeople

APS appoints Andrew Leslie as interim CEO

The Association for Project Safety (APS) has appointed Andrew Leslie, HonFaPS, as interim Chief Executive.

This appointment marks a step forward in the association’s commitment to enhancing safety and proficiency in the construction industry.

Andrew Leslie joined APS as one of its earliest members in 1995.

He combined architecture with Construction Design and Management (CDM) before transitioning to CDM consultancy.

In 2014, he joined the headquarters team as Technical and Standards Manager and played a key role in crafting the APS Principal Designers Handbook.

Leslie’s career and contributions

Andrew Leslie’s career has been marked by significant contributions to CDM support services and training for regeneration projects in London.

He was actively involved in post-Grenfell developments, contributing to the Building Safety Bill.

In 2021, he returned to APS as Head of Membership, navigating the industry through the complexities of the Building Safety Act.

His efforts have ensured that APS’s voice was heard in various regulatory consultations over the past year.

Vision for the future

As interim Chief Executive, Andrew Leslie aims to lead APS into a new era of innovation and excellence.

He will focus on initiatives that empower members and promote a culture of safety and competence within the construction industry.

Andrew Leslie said: “These are exciting times for APS. The recent changes to Building Regulations in England have opened opportunities for APS to develop competence schemes and membership development scenarios impacting the entire industry.”

Building a foundation for the future

Andrew Leslie highlighted the regional variations in building safety risk management: “Wales will follow, as will Scotland, where a different regime is planned for building safety risk management, and eventually Northern Ireland will follow.

“These opportunities and developments will provide APS with a firm foundation for the future, and I am delighted to be involved with initiating this next step in the development of APS.”

MSA Safety board elects new leadership, with Nish Vartanian as non-executive chairman and Steve Blanco as CEO

by Breaking NewsPeople

Nish Vartanian elected non-executive chairman

The Board of Directors of MSA Safety, Inc. has elected Nishan J. Vartanian as Non-Executive Chairman of the Board.

This decision, made on May 10th, follows Vartanian’s previously announced plans to retire as MSA Safety’s Chief Executive Officer.

He will retire as a full-time employee at the end of the month, having served as CEO since 2018 and Chairman since 2020.

Vartanian’s tenure at MSA Safety has been marked by significant developments and advancements in the company’s safety products and solutions.

His transition to Non-Executive Chairman ensures he remains a part of the company’s strategic direction while stepping back from day-to-day operations.

Steve Blanco assumes role of president and CEO

On the same day, Steven C. Blanco officially assumed the role of President and Chief Executive Officer of MSA Safety.

Blanco, who has been with the company since 2012, succeeds Vartanian in this role.

This transition was part of a planned management succession announced on February 22, 2024.

Blanco becomes the 10th CEO in the 110-year history of MSA Safety.

He previously served as President and Chief Operating Officer, bringing extensive experience and a deep understanding of the company’s operations to his new role.

MSA Safety’s leadership continuity and strategic direction

Vartanian’s move to Non-Executive Chairman and Blanco’s promotion to CEO are part of a strategic succession plan aimed at ensuring continuity and stable leadership within MSA Safety.

This leadership change reflects the company’s commitment to maintaining its position as a leader in the safety products industry.

Blanco’s long tenure at MSA Safety and his previous role as Chief Operating Officer position him well to lead the company forward.

His leadership is expected to build on the foundation laid by Vartanian, continuing the company’s focus on innovation and safety solutions.

IFSJ comment

The recent leadership changes at MSA Safety mark a significant shift in the company’s executive structure.

Nish Vartanian’s election as Non-Executive Chairman ensures his continued involvement with the company’s strategic decisions, even as he steps down from his role as CEO.

His retirement from full-time duties closes a notable chapter in MSA Safety’s history, characterized by growth and innovation under his leadership.

Steve Blanco’s assumption of the CEO role signifies a new era for MSA Safety.

With his extensive experience within the company and a clear understanding of its operations, Blanco is well-prepared to guide MSA Safety into the future.

This planned succession highlights the company’s foresight in leadership continuity, aiming to sustain its long-standing reputation for developing advanced safety products and solutions.

As the industry continues to evolve, MSA Safety’s strategic leadership transitions are poised to support its ongoing commitment to safety and innovation.

CPA announces Adam Turk as new chair, signalling a fresh direction for the construction products industry

by ConstructionFeatured NewsPeople

Construction Products Association welcomes new leadership

The Construction Products Association (CPA) has announced the appointment of Adam Turk as its new Chair.

Turk, who currently serves as CEO of Siderise, brings extensive experience from his decades-long career in the construction sector.

His deep involvement with the CPA over the last fifteen years positions him uniquely to steer the association through a pivotal era.

Turk’s predecessor, Phil Johns, led the CPA through a turbulent period marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, the impacts of the Russo-Ukraine war, and the ongoing ramifications of the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

Under Johns’ leadership, the CPA played a crucial role in addressing these challenges alongside government bodies and industry stakeholders.

The association has expressed profound gratitude to Johns as he transitions to new opportunities.

Challenges and opportunities ahead under new building safety laws

With the building safety regime now enshrined in law, the CPA faces both challenges and opportunities as the industry adjusts to new regulatory requirements.

Turk has been instrumental in developing the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), a critical tool demonstrating the sector’s commitment to safety and integrity.

During his speech at the CPA’s annual Spring lunch, Turk highlighted the necessity of internal reform within the industry, calling for “a top-down commitment to best practice, producing trustworthy product information and driving competence within our own organisations and the wider construction supply chain,” he stated.

New leadership, renewed focus

On his appointment, Turk expressed his honour and enthusiasm for his new role: “I am very honoured to have been appointed as the next CPA Chairman. The construction products industry is a great industry.

“One I am very proud to have been a part of for many years, and one that I am now excited to help lead for what promises to be an interesting period as the building safety regime begins to embed itself.

“I believe that, with the right focus and application, the construction product industry can get the attention it deserves, and we can create a trusted, successful and financially strong sector of the British economy,” Turk said.

Peter Caplehorn, Chief Executive of the CPA, also commented on the transition: “The CPA is committed to working with its members, with government, and with the wider industry to help ensure that it is driven in the right direction.

“This role has been ably conducted by Phil during a very challenging time.

“We now welcome Adam as Phil’s successor, and look forward to seeing how his drive, expertise, and integrity will support us in achieving these next steps towards a safer and more sustainable built environment,” Caplehorn added.

IFSA awards Kevin Fee with lifetime achievement honour at international conference

by Featured NewsPeople

Award presentation details

The International Fire Suppression Alliance (IFSA) has awarded its highest honour, the H. W. Marryatt Award, to Kevin T. Fee of The Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Company.

This rare accolade was presented during the Fire Sprinkler International conference in Dublin, Ireland, on April 24, 2024, by IFSA Chair Mike Bosma.

The award is named after Sir Harry Marryatt of Australia, a seminal figure in fire sprinkler advocacy and a founder of the Australian Fire Protection Association.

Sir Harry is celebrated for his influential writings on the effectiveness of fire sprinkler systems over the last century.

Kevin Fee’s contributions

Kevin Fee has recently concluded his tenure on the IFSA Board of Governors, a role he has held since he was a founding member and the organisation’s first chairman.

His contributions to IFSA and the wider fire suppression community have been extensive and sustained over the years.

As the current president and chairman of The Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co., Inc., and a third-generation leader of the business, Fee has been a cornerstone of the fire sprinkler industry both in the United States and internationally.

His educational background includes a BS in business management from Boston College and an MBA from Columbia University, which he put to use at Reliable starting in 1973.

Industry recognition and personal life

Throughout his career, Kevin Fee has been honoured with multiple awards, including the Golden Sprinkler Award from the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) and the Henry S. Parmelee Award from the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA).

He has been a member of the National Fire Protection Association since 1974 and has held significant advisory roles in several industry bodies.