Leadership shift at the Institution of Fire Engineers as Chair resigns

by Featured NewsPeople

IFE’s Chair and Technical Director Mark Chubb steps down

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has made an announcement that its Chair and Technical Director, Mark Chubb, has stepped down from his roles.

According to the official statement released by the IFE, available here, Chubb’s resignation is effective immediately.

Interim leadership by Peter Wilkinson and Hayley Burgess

In light of the resignation, the Board of Trustee Directors will gather on the 25th of July to discuss and confirm the appointment of a new Chair.

Until such a time, Vice Chair Hayley Burgess will take up the responsibilities of the Chair.

She will receive support from the International President, Peter Wilkinson.

The statement further confirms that Peter Wilkinson will also be assuming the role of Technical Director on a temporary basis.

Wilkinson is not new to the role of Technical Director. As a former Technical Director for the IFE, Wilkinson brings with him a wide range of knowledge and experience. His expertise will be pivotal in guiding the wider technical team during this transitional phase.

The Institution of Fire Engineers has not provided any further information regarding Chubb’s resignation or the process of selecting a new Chair and Technical Director.

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service welcomes new Non-Executive Chair

by Featured NewsPeople

Jay Colville to helm Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service Board

The Department of Health has announced the appointment of a new Non-Executive Chair for the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS). Colville’s tenure will commence on 1 July 2023.

Key role for Colville in Northern Ireland’s public safety

Peter May, Permanent Secretary, spoke on the appointment: “NIFRS protects and serves the entire population of NI, providing a range of fire and rescue services and the Chair is responsible for leading its Board and for ensuring that it successfully discharges its overall responsibility for the organisation.”

He further added: “I would like to congratulate the newly appointed Chair. His skills, experience and dedication to public service will prove invaluable in the years ahead.”

The role of the NIFRS Non-Executive Chair is a significant commitment, requiring the dedication of approximately 2 ½ – 3 days per week.

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service’s wide reach

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service was established on 1 July 2006.

It is tasked with protecting and serving the population of Northern Ireland, spanning an area of over 5,500 square miles, providing a range of fire and rescue services.

Under several legal orders and regulations, NIFRS responds to fires, road traffic collisions, and other emergencies.

The organisation maintains a dedicated Regional Control Centre and operates from 68 Fire Stations across Northern Ireland.

About the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service

The NIFRS Board comprises the Chief Fire and Rescue Officer, a Non-Executive Chair, and 10 other Non-Executive Members appointed by the Department.

All appointments are made on merit, with political activity playing no part in the selection process.

Jay Colville, the newly appointed Non-Executive Chair, previously served as the Area Director of Nationwide Building Society for Northern Ireland and West Scotland.

With an expansive career across the UK, he has held roles in various sectors including Management Training and Marketing project leadership.

International Fire & Safety Journal Commentary

This appointment marks a significant step in reinforcing Northern Ireland’s commitment to public safety and fire prevention measures.

As an established figure with a strong background in leadership, Jay Colville’s skills and experience could prove instrumental in steering the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service towards new advancements and increased efficiency in serving the community.

NEBOSH appoints Rob Hull as new chair to bolster health and safety standards

by Featured NewsPeople

An experienced figure steps into the key role at NEBOSH

Rob Hull has been officially announced as the new chair of NEBOSH, an awarding organisation and charity that focuses on international health and safety.

Starting from July 2023, Rob will spearhead the prestigious organisation, as reported on NEBOSH’s official website.

Rob Hull: A blend of experience in education, training and charity

Rob Hull brings a wealth of experience from education, training and charitable organisations to NEBOSH.

His distinguished civil service career includes contributions to national education and training policy, qualifications and occupational standards.

Following his public service, Rob took up various non-executive roles within education and training organisations.

Notably, Rob has served as a governor for several schools and universities.

He presently holds the position of Chair at the New City College Group in the UK.

Commitment to social change: Rob Hull’s involvement in charitable organisations

His involvement with charitable organisations is equally impressive.

Until 2021, Rob served as the Chair of Islington Giving, a London-based initiative that synergises charitable foundations, businesses, housing associations, and other stakeholders to address social issues stemming from poverty and inequality.

Rob Hull stated: “The health and safety profession is a particularly vital one.

“The people within it are dedicated to safeguarding the wellbeing of others and I am excited to be part of this special community.”

“NEBOSH leads the way in providing a high educational benchmark for the profession and I am committed to ensuring this continues.

“More people in more countries should be able to work safely each and every day; I hope that my experience in education, training and charities, along with expertise in quality and governance, will advance us closer to our vision of a safe and healthy world of work.”

Driving NEBOSH’s mission forward with new leadership

As Chair, Rob will lead the NEBOSH Board, working closely with the leadership team, including newly appointed Chief Executive Andy Shenstone. Together, they aim to increase the charity’s influence on the global health and safety profession. Part of their collaborative effort will be crafting a new strategy that delivers educational excellence, rigorous standards, and an enhanced social purpose programme.

For more insight on NEBOSH’s upcoming initiatives, see the recent interview with NEBOSH CEO Andy Shenstone in the International Fire and Safety Journal.

IFSJ Comment

Rob Hull’s appointment as the new chair of NEBOSH marks a significant development for the organisation. His blend of experience in education, training, and charitable sectors could bring fresh perspectives to the vital task of promoting health and safety in the global workplace.

About NEBOSH

NEBOSH (The National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) is an awarding body and charity with a global reputation for excellence in the fields of health, safety, and environmental management. NEBOSH qualifications are recognised and respected around the world, enhancing the careers of those who gain them, and benefiting the organisations for which they work.

Shinsuke Kubo assumes role as Managing Director of Hochiki Europe

by Featured NewsPeople

Hochiki Europe, a leading manufacturer of life safety solutions, has announced the promotion of Shinsuke Kubo to the position of Managing Director.

Starting from the 3rd of July, Shinsuke Kubo, the current Commercial Director, will take on the role of managing director.

Graham Lowe, the former managing director, will continue to be involved with the business on a part-time basis to support Mr. Kubo in his first year in the role.

A veteran in the field of life safety

Kubo brings nearly three decades of experience in the global Hochiki operation to his new role.

He has served the company in various locations including Japan, the United States, the Middle East, and the UK.

Lowe, his predecessor, has been the Managing Director for the past six years.

During his tenure, Lowe has positioned the European operation at the forefront of Hochiki’s global offering.

He has also overseen sustained growth across the European territories.

Kubo, known for his passion for customer experience and his extensive knowledge of the Hochiki product line and the fire industry, aims to continue this growth trajectory.

Mr. Kubo shared his thoughts on his new role: “I have enjoyed a fantastic career with Hochiki for the last 29 years, gaining experience of the industry and our customers across the globe.

“I think it’s time to bring all this knowledge together in my new role to continue to grow the business here.”

Hochiki Europe’s commitment to excellence

Hochiki Europe remains committed to ensuring the best people are in place in order to deliver the best life safety technology and customer experience. Kubo’s breadth of experience and the strong foundations he has to build on will undoubtedly support him in his new role.

More information about Hochiki Europe and its range of market-leading life safety products can be found on their website.

IFSJ Comment

Mr. Kubo’s appointment demonstrates Hochiki Europe’s commitment to strengthening its presence in the global life safety market. His global experience and understanding of diverse markets will be a significant asset for the company as it looks to expand its reach further.

About Hochiki Europe

Hochiki Europe, for over 100 years, has been a leader in the design and manufacturing of innovative life safety solutions. With its leading-edge commercial and industrial fire detection and emergency lighting products, Hochiki has earned global acceptance as the standard for high-integrity and long-term reliability.

Telgian Engineering President joins University of Maryland Board of Visitors

by AmericasFeatured NewsPeople

Experienced fire protection engineer takes on a key role in leading US fire protection education and research

Leonard Ramo, the President of Telgian Engineering & Consulting, has been recently appointed to the University of Maryland’s Fire Protection Engineering Board of Visitors (BOV).

The BOV plays a crucial role in the success of the Department.

It aids the Department in gaining recognition and support as a leader in fire protection engineering (FPE) research and education.

Additionally, its members act as links to industry, government, and other academic institutions.

The University of Maryland’s unique place in fire protection education

The University of Maryland holds the distinction of offering the only fully accredited fire protection engineering undergraduate programme in the US.

It is also one of merely three institutions in the country that provide graduate degree programmes in this field.

Ramo’s outlook on his new role and responsibilities

Ramo said of his appointment: “It’s an honour to be selected as a member of the Board of Visitors.”

He added: “Together, the Board advises the Department on a diverse range of important issues from strategic planning to corporate relations, fundraising initiatives to communication strategies. I look forward to working with this exceptional team to further this important mission.”

Leonard Ramo: a wealth of experience in fire protection engineering

Ramo brings nearly three decades of extensive industry experience as a fire protection engineer, consultant, and executive.

He is currently the President of Telgian Engineering & Consulting, a global engineering and risk mitigation consultancy.

They specialise in handling complex, multi-discipline public and private sector projects.

His professional qualifications include registration as a Professional Engineer (P.E.) across all 50 US States, the District of Columbia, and selected territories.

Additionally, Ramo has a Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) accreditation and holds a US Department of Homeland Security CVI certification.

Ramo’s influence in the international standards development

Ramo, a globally recognised industry professional, also contributes significantly to the development of international codes and standards.

He does this through his participation in select National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) committees.

About Telgian Engineering & Consulting, LLC (TEC)

Telgian Engineering & Consulting provides professional services aimed at protecting people, property, and organisational missions against preventable losses.

They offer services such as strategic risk management, fire protection engineering, security, and environmental health and safety.

Since its establishment in 1985, TEC has collaborated with a broad range of clients including architects, engineers, owners, developers, risk and facility management firms, construction teams and government agencies.

The company possesses a uniquely global perspective while also having a deep understanding of local, state, and federal compliance requirements.

IFSJ Comment

This appointment is significant as it brings a wealth of practical and executive experience to the University of Maryland’s Fire Protection Engineering Board of Visitors. Ramo’s leadership at Telgian Engineering and his comprehensive knowledge of the industry will undoubtedly provide the Board and the Department with fresh insights and strategies for advancing fire protection engineering research and education.

SFPE Foundation welcomes four new governors on board

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Overview of the newly appointed members

The SFPE Foundation, a charity aiming to deepen the understanding of fire and its interplay with social, natural and built environments, recently announced the appointment of four new governors to its board. The new governors were appointed in May.

The new appointments include Sean Donohue, Vice President of Fire & Life Safety, West, at WSP USA; Ann Jeffers, an Associate Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Michigan; Steve Kerber, Vice President & Executive Director of the Fire Safety Research Institute at UL Research Institutes; and Chris LaFleur, the Manager of Risk & Reliability Analysis for Sandia National Laboratories.

Mission and focus of the SFPE Foundation

On the purpose of the SFPE Foundation, Leslie Marshall, the Director, stated: “From funding research on the environmental and health impact of large-scale fire events, to studying opportunities for better integration of fire protection systems in building information modelling, to expanding resources on fire risk mitigation in the wildland urban interface, to understanding the impact of water supply and climate change on fire protection systems, and so much more, we continue to enhance the scientific understanding of fire. With the leadership of experts like Sean, Ann, Steve, and Chris – along with the support of generous donors and partners – we are expanding our impact and working to achieve our mission of engineering a resilient, sustainable, fire-safe world for all.”

Recognising outgoing members and funding the Foundation’s work

The SFPE Foundation also took the opportunity to recognise the invaluable contributions of outgoing Governors Kathleen Almand, Justin Biller and Bryan Klein.

The foundation’s programmes and research are financed through the support of donors, which include SFPE chapters, members, governmental agencies, leading companies and organisations, among others. It was pointed out that demand for research funding from the foundation significantly surpasses available funds. To manage this, the foundation periodically invites research proposals through both open calls and specific requests for proposals.

Telgian recognises associates for contributions in business development and operations

by AmericasFeatured NewsPeople

The annual Top Gun Awards celebrates excellence in the fire protection industry

Telgian, a leading force in the fire protection, life safety, and security industry, recently revealed the winners of its prestigious Top Gun Awards. This announcement came during the company’s Annual Meeting. Traditionally, the accolades acknowledge outstanding performers in the realm of business development. However, this year saw a first for the company as top contributors within operations were also honoured.

James Tomes, Telgian’s CEO and President, stated: “Four team members have been honoured this year for their exceptional performance, and the substantial impact they have made on the company. They have played a crucial role in the ongoing success of our business, exemplifying our core values of integrity and respect, which form the foundation of our business.”

Acknowledging business development stars

In the business development category, the accolades were awarded to Steve Goyette and Drew Gerard.

Steve Goyette brings to Telgian more than 35 years of experience in fire protection design and consulting. Apart from being a Certified Fire Protection Specialist, he also has a Level III NICET certification in Automatic Sprinkler System Layout. His leadership roles within several prominent fire and life safety organisations are notable. For instance, Goyette serves on the NFPA 915 Technical Committee on Remote Inspections and the NFPA 232 Technical Committee on the Standard for Protection of Records. Furthermore, in 2023, he took on the role of Executive Vice President, Business Development at Telgian Engineering & Consulting.

Gerard serves as the Vice President, West of Telgian Engineering & Consulting, bringing over 15 years of experience in fire protection and life safety consulting. He holds a Professional Engineer license in 25 US states and territories and possesses several certifications, including Certified Fire Protection Specialist and CVI Certification from the US Department of Homeland Security. Additionally, he is an active member in various professional organizations such as the SAME, SFPE, and NFPA.

Unveiling operations’ top performers

On the operations side, David Krimmer and Andrew Morland were the recipients of the Top Gun Awards.

David Krimmer, with 21 years of experience, is a Senior Account Manager for Telgian Fire Safety. Specialising in managing national inspections, testing, and maintenance programmes, Krimmer works with some of the largest and most recognisable retail companies in the United States. In addition to being a specialist in customer communication, problem resolution, and data management, he also has hands-on experience, boasting both fire sprinkler inspector certification and backflow tester certification.

Morland is an Assistant Regional Practice Leader at Telgian Engineering & Consulting, with a tenure of over 16 years in fire protection. His role includes coordinating new building system designs, detecting deficiencies, suggesting corrective actions, ensuring compliance with industry codes and standards, preparing fire protection specifications and permit level drawings, conducting hydraulic water flow analysis, and overseeing construction site visits.

Telgian continues its tradition of recognising excellence

With the inclusion of recognising top associates in operations, Telgian has shown its commitment to rewarding all-round excellence. The dedication and performance of these honoured associates embody the company’s values, laying a strong foundation for future business success. The annual Top Gun Awards continues to play a significant role in celebrating the achievements and fostering the talent within the fire protection, life safety, and security industry.

New Board elected at annual meeting of Metro Fire Chiefs Association

by AmericasEventsFeatured NewsPeople

The annual Conference was hosted in Columbus, Ohio

On June 4-8, 2023, over 130 fire chiefs from across the globe assembled in Columbus, Ohio for the annual Metro Fire Chiefs Association meeting. Chiefs from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Slovenia, the Netherlands, Guatemala, and Mexico, gathered to elect the Association’s 2023-2024 officers and board members.

New officers and board members

The meeting saw the election of several officials:

  • Edward “Loy” Senter Jr., was elected president, hailing from Chesterfield County, Virginia Fire & Emergency Medical Services.
  • Ernest Malone from the Indianapolis, Indiana Fire Department was elected vice president.
  • The Fairfax County, Virginia Fire Rescue Department’s John Butler was elected as secretary.
  • Trisha Wolford from Anne Arundel County, Maryland Fire Department was chosen as the treasurer.
  • The board welcomed new members including Steve Dongworth, Calgary, Alberta Fire Department; William Bryson (retired), City of Miami, Florida Fire Department; Samuel Peña, Houston, Texas Fire Department; and Robert Rocha (retired), Corpus Christi, Texas Fire Department.

Don Lombardi, the outgoing Metro Board member, issued the oath of office to the new officers and board members.

2023 Metro awards and honours

Several commendations and awards were also given:

  • Fire Chief of the Year was awarded to Chief Samuel Peña of the Houston, Texas Fire Department.
  • The Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Chief Don Lombardi of the West Metro Fire Protection District.
  • Trisha Wolford, Tiffany Green, and Joanne Rund all received the Metro Commendation for their respective contributions to the Fire Department.

Dignitaries from various fire associations were present, including US Fire Administration Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, National Fire Protection Association President and CEO Jim Pauley, and others.

Key Resolutions and Partnerships

The assembly also marked several significant developments:

  • The group passed a crucial resolution endorsing the “Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act” advocating for Medicare coverage of DNA blood tests for early cancer detection and a federal programme for annual cancer screenings for firefighters.
  • A partnership with the International Fire Service Journal of Leadership and Management resulted in the establishment of an Emerging Scholar Award, aimed at fostering the next generation of fire service researchers and scholars.
  • The conference saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Metro President Edward “Loy” Senter Jr. and CTIF President Milan Dubravac, promoting collaboration in areas like leadership, training, education, and disaster relief.

Looking to the Future

The Metro Fire Chiefs Association expressed gratitude to Columbus Fire Chief Jeffery Happ and his team for organising the successful conference. The upcoming 2024 Metro conference is set to be hosted in Tulsa, Oklahoma, by Chief Michael Baker. Future conferences in 2025 and 2026 are slated to be hosted by the fire departments of Horry County, South Carolina, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, respectively.

The Metro Fire Chiefs Association comprises fire chiefs from large metropolitan fire departments, focusing on major policy-changing issues in the US and abroad.

ASFP elects new Chair and first female Vice Chair at 2023 Annual General Meeting

by Breaking NewsPeople

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) made pivotal leadership changes at their 2023 Annual General Meeting.

On 7th June at Hatfield House, Hertfordshire, the ASFP selected new representatives for its Chair and Vice Chair roles. Clive Miles, the founder of CLM Fireproofing, has assumed the role of Chair, succeeding Chris Miles who stepped down after his two-year term. In a significant development, Sharon McClure of Avesta Scotland takes up the Vice Chair position, making her the first woman to hold this post within the ASFP.

Clive Miles: A veteran with a vision

Clive Miles, having established CLM three decades ago, boasts a long-standing career in delivering passive fire protection (PFP) solutions to some of the UK’s most noteworthy buildings. His primary focus is on propagating best practices, nurturing talent, and fostering innovation within the PFP sector.

Clive shared his perspective on the ongoing issues plaguing the industry and his plan for the ASFP’s advancement: “Increased pressures from legislation, media coverage, insurances and skill shortages are driving unprecedented transformation in the sector. The ASFP and our members have to evolve in new and innovative ways in order to adapt to this new, ever-changing world.

“The industry is suffering both from an ageing workforce and a skills shortage and more needs to be done to attract and retain young professionals. Through a combination of apprenticeships, academies and outreach programmes we can help secure the next generation of our profession.

“By creating and implementing new ways to train, engage and promote PFP, we can ensure the ASFP becomes the industry benchmark for ‘educational best practice’.”

He also warmly welcomed Sharon McClure as Vice Chair, acknowledging her extensive industry experience and past contributions to the ASFP’s growth as a long-serving Council member.

Sharon McClure: A advocate for quality and competency

Having been part of the PFP industry since 2006 and Avesta since 2010, Sharon is a dedicated professional with a clear vision for the sector’s evolution. She currently represents Scotland for the ASFP within BuildUK (BuildScotland) and is the Chair of the Ayrshire Construction Training Group.

Sharon’s goal is to enhance the PFP sector’s competency, boost quality within the built environment, and ensure lessons are learned from past construction errors. She believes in timely consideration of passive fire and other crucial construction components.

A successful annual gathering

The 2023 Annual General Meeting served as a valuable networking event for ASFP members and guests. Attendees gained insight into ASFP’s activities and future plans, and received regulatory updates. The highlight was a keynote speech from Aman Sharma, CEO of Totus Digital and former Deputy Chair of the Building Regulations Advisory Committee. Sharma’s talk focused on how digital innovation can create a ‘Golden Thread’ of information to improve building safety.

For more information about the ASFP, please visit their website.

FireMate strengthens team with new Business Development Manager

by Featured NewsPeople

FireMate, a fire industry firm specialising in remote alarm management and software, has confirmed the appointment of Taylor Streets as their new Business Development Manager.

With a significant amount of industry experience and a commendable record in sales, Streets will play a vital role in enhancing the company’s reach in both the UK and European markets.

The 29-year-old, originally from Worksop, now resides in the nearby village of Carlton-in-Lindrick. His professional journey began as a health coach for the NHS and ToHealth. Later, he moved to the fire sector, working at Hoyles Fire and Safety Ltd as a Fire Sales Engineer. After showing considerable prowess in various areas like contract sales, fire risk assessments, equipment sales, training, and fire extinguisher servicing, he become the top-performing salesperson for the North of England in 2021 and 2022.

Upon his appointment, Streets expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m thrilled to join the dynamic team at FireMate. The company’s innovative approach and positive work culture align well with my aspirations. I’m particularly excited about promoting the innovative Nimbus line, which offers remote monitoring, testing, and management for fire systems from all key manufacturers. I aim to foster new relationships, manage current accounts, and generate new business, expanding the impressive Nimbus customer base.”

Mike Giuffrida, FireMate’s Managing Director, expressed his confidence in Streets’ ability to progress the company. He stated: “We’re delighted to welcome Taylor to our team. His expertise in the fire industry and exceptional sales and negotiation skills make him a strong asset to us. We look forward to seeing the energy and passion he brings to this role and the positive impact it will have on our operations.”