Firefighters awarded in King’s Birthday Honours for service in New South Wales

by Featured NewsPeople

Recognition of firefighters announced by Fire and Rescue NSW

Four Fire and Rescue New South Wales (FRNSW) firefighters have been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours list for their service to fire safety and community resilience.

According to Fire and Rescue NSW, Captain Edwin Gray, Chief Superintendent Steven Hayes, and Station Officer Mark Porter have received the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM), while Assistant Commissioner Michael Morris has received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) alongside his wife, Jo-ann.

The medals were awarded by the Governor-General on the advice of federal and state ministers.

The Australian Fire Service Medal recognises distinguished service by members of Australian fire services.

The Medal of the Order of Australia is awarded for service to the community and national achievement.

Long-standing leadership and community focus of Captain Edwin Gray

Fire and Rescue NSW stated that Captain Edwin Gray joined the organisation in 1994 and has served the Tenterfield community for over 30 years.

He was promoted to Captain in 2010 and has led Tenterfield Fire Station since, with a focus on operational performance, bushfire response, and public engagement.

The organisation noted that Captain Gray played a key role during the 2019–20 bushfires and has supported the Home Fire Safety Visit Program and local events such as the fire station centenary.

He has also contributed to public safety in other ways, including mentoring junior firefighters and assisting in his community as a school bus driver.

Fire and Rescue NSW said his actions reflect sustained service beyond his core duties.

Chief Superintendent Hayes commended for leadership during emergencies

According to Fire and Rescue NSW, Chief Superintendent Steven Hayes began his fire service career in 1990 and has served across multiple stations including Liverpool and Macquarie Fields.

He currently leads the Fire Safety Directorate and regularly attends incidents to provide operational oversight.

The organisation reported that Chief Superintendent Hayes was involved in responses to major emergencies including the 2019–20 bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic.

It also said he was seconded to NSW State Emergency Service during the 2020–21 floods and coordinated support in flood-affected regions.

His work with Sydney Metro and the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator was described by Fire and Rescue NSW as instrumental in developing emergency access strategies for the expanded rail network.

Station Officer Porter recognised for national fire safety contributions

Station Officer Mark Porter has served in the fire service since 1983, according to Fire and Rescue NSW.

He currently works in the Fire Safety Policy Unit, where his responsibilities include regulatory development and technical standards assessment.

The organisation said Station Officer Porter contributed to Australian standards related to fire hydrants, sprinkler systems and firefighting water storage.

He played a role in revising AS2419.1, the national standard for hydrant systems, which Fire and Rescue NSW said directly influences equipment design and deployment.

It stated that his involvement extends to national committees through the Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authorities Council.

Assistant Commissioner Morris and Jo-ann Morris awarded for public advocacy

Assistant Commissioner Michael Morris and his wife Jo-ann were awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for their work in health advocacy and community support.

Fire and Rescue NSW explained that they founded the Samuel Morris Foundation in 2007 following a non-fatal drowning incident involving their son.

The foundation’s efforts led to legislative change in water safety, as reported by the organisation.

Assistant Commissioner Morris has held roles in FRNSW and advocacy positions in paediatric health and disability support.

According to the organisation, their personal experiences shaped campaigns for improved services for families caring for people with disabilities.

The OAM award recognises both of their sustained efforts in charitable and public health initiatives.

Government and agency leaders comment on recognition

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said: “While we’re recognising King’s Birthday Honours recipients today, I want to acknowledge all the FRNSW staff who work tirelessly to keep NSW communities safe all year round.

“In the past few weeks, we’ve seen FRNSW crews once again answer the call to support local communities, in response to the devastating Mid North Coast floods.

“I’ve witnessed this exceptional work first-hand, and I’m grateful to all our NSW emergency services agencies for working together to help people during the worst of times.”

FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell AFSM said: “I send my congratulations and appreciation to each of the recipients on their service, firefighting careers and outstanding contributions.

“Each of these firefighters bring different perspectives, skills and contributions to our workplace, but what they share is a commitment to go above and beyond the call of duty.

“These recipients don’t seek recognition or praise, but it’s wonderful to see them recognised nationally for their leadership and dedicated contributions to the community.”

Firefighters awarded in King’s Birthday Honours for service in New South Wales: Summary

Four firefighters from Fire and Rescue New South Wales have received national honours.

Captain Edwin Gray, Chief Superintendent Steven Hayes, and Station Officer Mark Porter received the Australian Fire Service Medal.

Assistant Commissioner Michael Morris and Jo-ann Morris received the Medal of the Order of Australia.

The awards were announced as part of the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours list.

FRNSW confirmed the awards were based on contributions to leadership, fire safety and public advocacy.

Captain Gray was recognised for his operational work and community engagement in Tenterfield.

Chief Superintendent Hayes was acknowledged for his emergency management and infrastructure planning.

Station Officer Porter was recognised for contributions to national fire safety standards.

Assistant Commissioner Morris and Jo-ann Morris were awarded for health and disability advocacy.

The honours were confirmed by Fire and Rescue NSW on 10 June 2025.

All medals were awarded by the Governor-General on ministerial recommendation.

FireQual appoints David White and Colin Todd to UK board

by Featured NewsPeople

New appointments aim to support UK fire safety qualifications

FireQual has announced the appointment of David White and Colin Todd to its board of directors.

According to FireQual, the appointments bring over 100 years of combined experience to the organisation, with a specific focus on advancing fire safety qualifications in the United Kingdom.

David White joins with immediate effect.

FireQual stated that White has over 50 years of experience in the sector, including 30 years in the fire and rescue services.

White is Chairman and former President of the Institute of Fire Safety Managers.

He has contributed to the development of both UK and international fire safety standards.

White said: “I trust that I can support its growth and provide the industry with robust, regulated qualifications that best represent the skills and knowledge required to work in the industry today.”

Colin Todd brings regulatory and committee experience

FireQual reported that Colin Todd has also joined its board.

Todd has five decades of experience in the fire safety field and has received national honours for his contributions.

He has worked extensively with organisations including the British Standards Institution and the Fire Industry Association.

Todd has also participated in multiple government committees.

The organisation stated that his work in consultancy, training and standards development has influenced national practice.

Todd said: “The importance of training new and existing members of the fire safety profession cannot be overestimated and has always been a passion of mine.

“I look forward to the challenges of FireQual’s role in raising standards within the profession.”

Board changes reflect strategic focus on training and regulation

Dr Justin Maltby-Smith, Chief Executive Officer of the BAFE Group, commented on the appointments.

Maltby-Smith said: “These key appointments underscore FireQual’s unwavering commitment to excellence in fire safety training and assessment.

“By valuing experience in leadership, FireQual continues to elevate the standards of regulated qualifications across the industry, ensuring professionals have the real-world skills and knowledge needed to protect lives and property.”

FireQual confirmed that both appointments are effective immediately.

The organisation added that the new board members will contribute to the development of its qualification framework.

FireQual aligns board with sector requirements in the UK

According to FireQual, the decision to expand its board reflects ongoing changes in the UK fire safety sector.

The organisation stated that aligning leadership with industry expectations will help ensure qualifications meet national regulatory standards.

It added that both appointees bring direct experience of delivering training and influencing policy.

FireQual also confirmed that its qualifications are regulated and designed to reflect real-world fire safety roles.

FireQual appoints David White and Colin Todd to UK board: Summary

FireQual has added two new members to its board.

David White has over 50 years of experience, including 30 years in fire and rescue services.

White is Chairman and former President of the Institute of Fire Safety Managers.

Colin Todd has also joined the board.

Todd has five decades of fire safety experience and has received national honours.

He has worked with BSI, the FIA and government committees.

FireQual said the appointments aim to support regulated fire safety qualifications in the UK.

Dr Justin Maltby-Smith of the BAFE Group welcomed the appointments.

Both appointments are effective immediately.

Magirus confirms departure of Sales and Customer Services Director Marc Kuntz

by Featured NewsPeopleVehicles

Director’s exit marks shift in Magirus leadership structure

Magirus has announced that Marc Kuntz, Director of Sales and Customer Services, is leaving the company in May 2025 at his own request.

According to Magirus, Kuntz has served on the management board since 2022 and was responsible for global customer-facing operations including sales, marketing, customer service, product management and training.

The firefighting vehicles company stated that Kuntz played a role in the company’s recent strategic realignment, particularly through new sales structures and market introductions.

Responsibilities and impact during tenure

Magirus explained that during his time as Head of Sales and Customer Services, Kuntz oversaw the company’s global commercial functions.

This included managing equipment strategy, quality assurance, international dealer networks and training operations.

The company added that Kuntz had also led efforts to launch new product lines and expand Magirus’ international reach through newly established sales subsidiaries.

Statements from company leadership

Magirus Managing Director Thomas Hilse said: “I would like to thank Marc Kuntz for his work over the past years.

“With his sales expertise, he has played a key role in the successful development of the company, the realignment of sales and the market launch of our new products.

“We regret Marc Kuntz’s decision and wish him every success in his personal and professional future.”

Chief Restructuring Officer Fatmir Veselaj added: “Marc Kuntz played a key role in shaping the strategic realignment of Magirus GmbH as part of the transformation and is particularly responsible for the establishment of our new sales companies.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank him personally for his professional and dedicated work.

“I wish him every success in his new career.”

Professional background prior to joining Magirus

Magirus noted that Kuntz began his career in 2004 at the German sales division of Mercedes-Benz.

He later held senior roles with Daimler Trucks in India and Japan, and in 2020 he was appointed to lead sales and marketing for Daimler Trucks Overseas.

Kuntz joined Magirus in 2022 and has remained on the management board until his departure in May 2025.

Magirus announces exit of Sales Director Marc Kuntz in Germany: Summary

Magirus has confirmed the departure of Marc Kuntz as Director of Sales and Customer Services.

Kuntz joined the company in 2022 and is leaving in May 2025 at his own request.

He held responsibility for global sales, marketing, customer service, product management and training.

Magirus said he contributed to the company’s strategic realignment and expansion into new markets.

Managing Director Thomas Hilse thanked Kuntz for his work and leadership in product launches.

Chief Restructuring Officer Fatmir Veselaj acknowledged his role in the development of new sales subsidiaries.

Prior to joining Magirus, Kuntz worked for Mercedes-Benz and Daimler Trucks in Europe and Asia.

He led overseas sales and marketing at Daimler Trucks before moving to Magirus.

Kentec targets BESS fire risks in China with regional expansion

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

Kentec appoints Frank Tan as Asia Pacific Business Development Manager

Kentec has announced a new strategic hire as it expands its fire detection and suppression offering for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in China.

According to Kentec, Frank Tan has been appointed as Business Development Manager for the Asia Pacific region, with a specific focus on growing the company’s presence in the Chinese BESS sector.

Kentec stated that Tan brings over 30 years of experience in fire safety and detection, having previously held roles at Johnson Controls, VESDA, Airsense and SDHY.

Frank Tan to lead regional growth across BESS and detection markets

The company said Tan will lead efforts to strengthen Kentec’s presence across Asia Pacific.

He is a graduate of the University of Science and Technology in Beijing and holds an MBA from Donghua University in Shanghai.

Kentec added that Tan is a Registered Electrical Engineer and Registered Fire Engineer, and a member of the Technical Committee for technical specification for aspirating smoke detection (ASD) fire alarm systems of electrical factories.

Derrick Hall, Director of Sales and Marketing at Kentec, said: “Frank brings invaluable knowledge and experience of the market in China and the wider region, and will help drive Kentec’s growth in the fast-moving battery energy storage sector, where fire presents a considerable risk for BESS operators.”

Kentec develops dedicated fire safety solutions for BESS installations

Kentec reported that its expansion follows increased demand for fire protection solutions in battery storage sites across China, which it described as remote and often unmanned, creating additional challenges for detection and suppression.

The company stated that it has developed a tailored solution to address fire hazards in BESS applications.

According to Kentec, this system includes an early warning function to detect threats in advance and help mitigate the risk of major incidents.

New flammable gas sensor aims to support early hazard identification

Kentec confirmed that it is preparing to launch a flammable gas sensor designed for BESS environments.

It explained that the sensor identifies gases associated with fire risk and functions without requiring calibration throughout its lifespan, helping reduce servicing costs.

The company noted that the sensor integrates with Kentec’s ZXT and other extinguishing and releasing panels to provide alerts when potentially explosive gases are detected.

According to Kentec, this allows operators to act in advance using venting or other control measures before suppression systems are triggered.

Kentec targets BESS fire risks in China with regional expansion: Summary

Kentec has appointed Frank Tan as Business Development Manager for Asia Pacific.

The appointment is part of Kentec’s expansion into the Chinese BESS market.

Tan has over 30 years of experience in fire safety and detection.

He has previously worked at Johnson Controls, VESDA, Airsense and SDHY.

He holds qualifications as a Registered Electrical Engineer and Registered Fire Engineer.

Kentec reported that fire risks in battery storage systems are increasing in China.

The company said many sites are remote and unmanned, raising challenges for fire detection.

Kentec stated that it has developed a solution specific to BESS environments.

It is preparing to launch a flammable gas sensor for early hazard detection.

The sensor integrates with Kentec’s extinguishing and releasing systems.

Kentec confirmed that the sensor does not require calibration over its life span.

The company said the sensor provides early alerts before fire or explosion occurs.

Fire-Dex confirms 2026 leadership handover

by Breaking NewsPeople
Lauren Burke DeVere [left] will become CEO, John Karban [right] will be named President

CEO succession at Fire-Dex to begin in 2026

Fire-Dex has confirmed that a leadership transition will begin in 2026, with President Lauren Burke DeVere set to take over as Chief Executive Officer.

According to Fire-Dex, Burke DeVere will begin sharing CEO responsibilities with current Chief Executive Steve Allison from the start of 2026, ahead of his planned retirement in early 2027.

Fire-Dex added that John Karban, currently Vice President of Operations, will be promoted to President as part of the same succession plan.

Burke DeVere to become CEO following phased transition

The manufacturer stated that the transition will take place over 15 months, during which time Burke DeVere and Allison will jointly manage executive responsibilities.

Steve Allison, who joined Fire-Dex in 2014 and has served as CEO since, said: “It’s been the honour of my career to lead this incredible team.

“It’s humbling and exciting to step into the CEO role, especially following in Steve’s footsteps,” said Lauren Burke DeVere.

She added: “I care for our people more than anything, and I’m laser-focused on keeping our culture strong, our people supported and our mission front and centre.”

Burke DeVere joined Fire-Dex in 2019 and became President in 2021. The company said her promotion follows a period of sustained growth and strategic change.

Karban to take on President role after two decades at the company

Fire-Dex confirmed that John Karban will succeed Burke DeVere as President after more than 20 years with the business.

The company said Karban began his career with Fire-Dex as a Plant Manager and later led operational, logistics and engineering initiatives.

John Karban said: “I’ve worn a lot of hats here.

“What’s never changed is the heart of this company: our people and our purpose.

Karban added: “I’m excited to take on the role of President and work alongside Lauren and our team to keep building on what makes Fire-Dex special.”

Company outlines long-term focus on internal leadership and product development

Fire-Dex stated that the succession plan reflects its focus on internal leadership development and business continuity.

The company noted that more than 500 associates and multiple facilities are involved in its operations, with no plans to slow growth.

Current CEO Steve Allison said: “We’re not slowing down.

“I’m thrilled to support Lauren and John through this transition as they shape the future of Fire-Dex together.”

Fire-Dex added that its work continues on products and services including AeroFlex turnouts, firefighter sizing AI, and Gear Wash maintenance.

Fire-Dex confirms 2026 leadership handover: Summary

Fire-Dex has announced a leadership transition set to begin in January 2026.

Current President Lauren Burke DeVere will become CEO in a phased handover with current CEO Steve Allison.

Steve Allison will retire in early 2027.

Vice President of Operations John Karban will become President in 2026.

Burke DeVere has been with Fire-Dex since 2019 and became President in 2021.

Karban has worked at Fire-Dex for over 20 years in operations and logistics.

The company said the changes reflect its people-first and internal succession approach.

More than 500 staff work across multiple Fire-Dex facilities in the United States.

The manufacturer said its development of protective gear and services will continue during the transition.

Fire-Dex confirmed it will continue expanding manufacturing and technology capabilities.

CSL appoints new business development director for European IoT expansion

by Featured NewsPeople

CSL names new director for European business growth

CSL has announced that Tom Montali has been named business development director to support the company’s growth strategy across Europe.

According to CSL, Montali will focus on expanding the company’s presence in new sectors and strengthening its relationships with commercial partners.

The company explained that Montali brings commercial and leadership experience from previous roles across the energy and building technology industries.

CSL outlines Montali’s commercial background

CSL reported that prior to joining the company, Montali held senior roles at Honeywell.

He led sales teams across the UK, Nordic countries and wider Europe within Honeywell’s Building Automation division.

The company said his teams delivered integrated solutions to large-scale clients using technologies across Honeywell’s building management, fire and security systems.

CSL added that Montali previously worked at E.ON, where he managed the delivery of energy solutions for enterprise customers across European markets.

Executive leadership cites customer value and growth strategy

Greville Coe, chief commercial officer at CSL, welcomed Montali to the company’s leadership team.

Coe said: “Tom’s experience in developing customer-centric strategies and leading cross-regional sales teams makes him an excellent addition to our commercial leadership.”

He continued: “His industry insight and drive for delivering value will be instrumental as we continue to scale and serve our customers across new sectors and geographies.”

CSL stated that the appointment is aligned with its strategic goals to grow and invest in leadership talent.

CSL continues focus on critical connectivity services

CSL explained that it provides managed connectivity solutions for critical infrastructure and business operations.

According to the company, it supports over 2.5 million connections through single or multi-path IoT systems across various sectors.

CSL stated that its technology is used in applications where continuous and reliable communication is required, including life-safety systems and essential business services.

CSL appoints new business development director for European IoT expansion: Summary

CSL has appointed Tom Montali as business development director.

Montali will focus on growing CSL’s presence in new sectors and regions across Europe.

He previously held senior sales and leadership roles at Honeywell.

At Honeywell, he managed teams delivering building automation, fire and security solutions.

Montali also worked at E.ON in commercial roles supporting energy solutions for enterprise clients.

CSL said his experience aligns with its strategy to expand across the IoT connectivity market.

Chief commercial officer Greville Coe welcomed the appointment in a company statement.

CSL stated it provides over 2.5 million managed IoT connections across critical sectors.

Telgian opens new Denver office to expand regional fire protection services

by Featured NewsPeople

Expansion driven by demand for local support in Western US

Telgian has announced the opening of a new office in Denver, Colorado, in response to growing demand for fire protection and life safety services in the Western United States.

The company said the Denver location will serve as a regional hub to improve access to services across Colorado and neighbouring states.

According to Telgian, the decision to open the new office reflects requests from clients for more locally based expertise and quicker response times.

The firm added that this move would allow it to better support both new and existing projects with its established range of fire protection engineering and code consulting services.

Appointment of Paul Seifert as regional practice leader

Telgian confirmed that Paul Seifert has been appointed as the Regional Practice Leader to oversee the new Denver operation.

Seifert is a fire protection and life safety engineer with over seven years of experience in the field.

The company noted that he is a member of several professional bodies, including the National Fire Protection Association, the Society of Fire Protection Engineers, the National Fire Sprinkler Association, and the American Fire Sprinkler Association.

Leonard Ramo, President of Telgian Engineering & Consulting, said: “Our clients are asking for more localised support and access to expert resources as they grow and expand, and we are responding.

“Opening a Denver office and bringing Paul on board are key steps in ensuring we continue to meet – and exceed – those expectations.”

Range of services offered by the new office

Telgian stated that its Denver office will provide a full range of consultancy services related to fire safety, emergency planning, and security risk management.

The services available include fire protection engineering, building code consulting, emergency response planning, and assessments of security risks for facilities and infrastructure.

The company said these offerings are designed to support clients throughout the lifecycle of a project, from initial design through to operational compliance.

It added that having a dedicated team based in the region will help improve coordination and service delivery for complex and multi-site projects.

Denver site to act as a regional delivery hub

The new location will function as a central point for operations across the wider Western US, Telgian explained.

It noted that increased activity in the construction, manufacturing, and public service sectors had created a need for expanded fire and life safety support in the area.

The firm said that the office will play a key role in servicing regional markets with a focus on reliability and responsiveness.

Telgian added that the expansion aligns with its long-term strategy to improve geographic reach and service proximity for clients.

Telgian opens new Denver office to expand regional fire protection services: Summary

Telgian has opened a new office in Denver, Colorado.

The company said the expansion was prompted by increased client demand in the Western US.

The new site will serve as a hub for regional operations.

Paul Seifert has been appointed as Regional Practice Leader.

Seifert has over seven years of experience in fire protection and life safety engineering.

He is affiliated with NFPA, SFPE, NFSA, and AFSA.

The Denver office will offer services including fire protection engineering, code consulting, and emergency management.

Telgian said the move will support better service delivery for local projects.

It noted that clients had asked for more accessible and localised support.

The company said the site will also handle security risk consulting work.

Leonard Ramo is President of Telgian Engineering & Consulting.

He said the new office and Seifert’s appointment will help meet client expectations.

The company stated that Western US sectors such as construction and public services require expanded safety services.

Telgian plans to use the site to improve responsiveness and geographic coverage.

The firm confirmed the Denver location is already operational.

APS appoints Sofie Hooper as Deputy CEO to support building safety strategy

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

Appointment strengthens APS leadership in UK building safety policy

The Association for Project Safety (APS) has announced that Sofie Hooper has been appointed as Deputy CEO, according to a statement published by APS.

Hooper previously served as Head of Policy and Research at the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), an international membership body representing over 11,500 professionals.

APS stated that Hooper’s appointment is effective immediately and will support the organisation’s focus on competence, policy development and training within the building safety sector.

Sofie Hooper brings experience in UK and EU public policy

APS reported that Hooper has spent a large part of her career as a Public Policy Advisor, with roles focused on both UK and EU-level policymaking.

While at IWFM, she co-authored the report Safer people, safer homes: Building Safety Management, which APS said played a role in shaping the post-Grenfell legislative environment.

APS stated that Hooper regularly engaged with the Building Safety Regulator, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, and other policy bodies.

The organisation added that Hooper contributed to the integration of the Building Safety Alliance into early Parliamentary and Government documents ahead of the Building Safety Act 2022.

New Deputy CEO role to support APS strategic development

According to APS, the Deputy CEO position has been newly created to provide additional senior-level support as the organisation develops its policy and training strategy.

Hooper will report to CEO Andrew Leslie.

Her responsibilities will include leading on the APS competence and training schemes, contributing to policy development, and engaging with other professional bodies and business partners.

APS stated that the new role is designed to enhance the organisation’s capability to deliver on its strategic aims and meet increasing demand for expertise in building and fire regulations across the UK’s four nations.

Leadership responses to the appointment

Sofie Hooper said: “For three decades, APS has been the driving force in improving health and safety standards within the construction industry.

“I’m thrilled to be joining an organisation that continually strives to put excellence and innovation in building safety front and centre of a progressive agenda.

“I’m looking forward to engaging with APS members and our stakeholders to ensure best practice in building safety is not just vigorously upheld but proactively sought after.”

APS CEO Andrew Leslie said: “APS is delighted to welcome Sofie to the APS team in the newly created post of Deputy CEO.

“Sofie has a proven track record within the built environment and will add considerable knowledge and experience to the APS senior management team, and in particular provide essential additional support and expertise to enable both the President and CEO to deliver the APS strategy.”

APS President Mark Snelling added: “APS is extremely privileged to have Sofie join us as Deputy CEO.

“Sofie is highly respected within the industry and has been closely connected with the changes that have followed the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower.

“I look forward to working with Sofie and Andrew our CEO to ensure the APS both supports our members and drives the change that is required to ensure that the tragedy at Grenfell Tower is not repeated.”

APS appoints Sofie Hooper as Deputy CEO to support building safety strategy: Summary

The Association for Project Safety (APS) has appointed Sofie Hooper as Deputy CEO.

The announcement was made by APS on 7 May 2025.

Hooper previously served as Head of Policy and Research at the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management.

She has worked extensively in public policy in the UK and EU.

While at IWFM, she co-authored the report Safer people, safer homes: Building Safety Management.

She worked closely with the Building Safety Regulator and other policy bodies.

APS stated she contributed to early policy input for the Building Safety Act 2022.

In her new role, she will report to CEO Andrew Leslie.

She will oversee policy development, training schemes, and stakeholder engagement.

APS said the role supports delivery of its building safety strategy.

Her appointment takes effect immediately.

Mira Leinonen appointed as rescue director for Päijät-Häme welfare region, Finland

by Featured NewsPeople

Päijät-Häme confirms appointment of Mira Leinonen as new rescue director

Pelastustieto has reported that Mira Leinonen has been appointed as the new director of the rescue services in the Päijät-Häme welfare region in Finland.

She will replace Jari Hyvärinen, the first to hold the post, who is retiring in May.

Leinonen will begin her new role on 1 August at the earliest.

Mira Leinonen’s background in rescue and public safety roles

According to Pelastustieto, Leinonen holds a Master of Science in Engineering and a degree in rescue operations.

She has completed the Officer Development programme in strategic management organised by the European Fire Chiefs’ Association FEU in the Netherlands.

She has also studied management and organisational communication at the University of Tampere.

Leinonen is currently the head of the rescue service unit and chief rescue inspector at the Regional State Administrative Agency of Southern Finland.

She has also worked for the National Police Board, the Western and Inner Finland AVI, and the Finnish Railways Agency/Trafi.

Second woman to serve as rescue director in Finnish history

Pelastustieto noted that Leinonen will become the second woman to hold a rescue director position in Finland.

The first was Piia Vähäsalo, who served as rescue director in Jokilaakso.

Leinonen has also written about rescue services as a columnist for Pelastustieto for over ten years.

Focus on staff well-being and national safety development

Leinonen told Pelastustieto: “The professional operations of the Päijät-Häme rescue department have impressed me while I was acting as a supervising authority.

“They do things with passion, but they don’t make a big deal out of their operations.

“I was also attracted by the fact that the recruitment announcement mentioned occupational well-being as the most important task of the director.”

Leinonen added: “Many people probably know me, so I’m sure I’ll fit in well with the other rescue leaders.”

Leinonen stated: “He considers taking care of the well-being of his staff to be the most important task of a manager. He wants to be open and approachable.”

Leinonen continued: “He says that he will take a stand as a rescue director in the rescue service when necessary, but he will not become a boss. Issues related to well-being are something he particularly wants to maintain in the rescue service nationwide.”

She is also involved in a new occupational safety project and has expressed interest in having Päijät-Häme serve as a pilot site for the initiative.

Mira Leinonen appointed as rescue director for Päijät-Häme welfare region: Summary

Mira Leinonen has been appointed as the new rescue director of the Päijät-Häme welfare region in Finland.

She will replace Jari Hyvärinen, who is retiring in May.

Her start date will be no earlier than 1 August.

The information was reported by Pelastustieto.

Leinonen holds a Master of Science in Engineering and a degree in rescue operations.

She has studied at the University of Tampere and participated in the FEU strategic management programme.

Her current role is head of the rescue service unit and chief rescue inspector at the Regional State Administrative Agency of Southern Finland.

She has previously worked for the National Police Board, AVI, and Trafi.

She has also written rescue service columns for Pelastustieto for over ten years.

She is the second woman to be appointed as a rescue director in Finland.

The first was Piia Vähäsalo in Jokilaakso.

Leinonen has prioritised staff well-being in her leadership plans.

She is also contributing to a new occupational safety project.

Vox Ignis strengthens UK sales team with Richard Gray appointment

by Featured NewsPeople

Appointment made to grow UK fire systems business

Vox Ignis has announced the appointment of Richard Gray as its new Regional Sales Manager for the South of the United Kingdom.

The company confirmed the news following the retirement of former manager Nick Teahan.

Vox Ignis stated that Gray officially joined at the end of April and will focus on increasing sales and supporting customers across the southern region.

According to Vox Ignis, Gray will be responsible for promoting its range of products including the Unicorn Voice public address and voice alarm (PAVA) system, Lexicomm emergency voice communication (EVC), AssistCall safety alarms, and InEvac lockdown systems.

Richard Gray brings industry experience to the role

Vox Ignis explained that Gray is based in Portsmouth and has nearly 20 years of experience in the UK fire industry.

The company added that he has held senior design and sales roles with multiple installers and distributors and has specific expertise in EN54-16 compliant voice alarm systems.

Jeremy Kirkup, Sales Director at Vox Ignis, said: “We’re very happy to welcome Richard to the company. He is a very well-respected professional with vast experience and has fitted in well.

“We are growing quickly with sales across our portfolio, especially for our Unicorn Voice integrated PAVA and EVC system, and Richard is quickly proving a real asset.

“Our product launch programme for 2025 is already full and these are exciting times for everyone who deals with Vox Ignis.”

Richard Gray outlines plans in new role

Richard Gray said: “I’m delighted to join Vox Ignis. I have known or worked with them for many years in previous roles and it’s a real privilege to join a thriving, independent UK manufacturer at the next stage in its growth.

“Their current portfolio is very well regarded and requested. New products such as Unicorn Voice, InEvac and AssistCallPro mean that there is a new Vox Ignis solution for existing and future customers alike.”

Vox Ignis continues UK expansion

Vox Ignis stated that it manufactures its systems in the UK and supplies products under its own name and through OEM partners globally.

Its portfolio covers voice alarm systems, emergency voice communication, lockdown systems and assistance call solutions.

The company said its technologies are used daily to support building safety for millions of people worldwide.

Vox Ignis strengthens UK sales team with Richard Gray appointment: Summary

Vox Ignis has appointed Richard Gray as its new Regional Sales Manager for the South of the UK.

The company confirmed the move followed the retirement of former manager Nick Teahan.

Gray joined at the end of April.

Vox Ignis said Gray will support sales growth and customer service across southern UK regions.

He will focus on promoting Unicorn Voice PAVA, Lexicomm EVC, AssistCall and InEvac systems.

Gray is based in Portsmouth and has almost 20 years of experience in the UK fire industry.

He previously held senior roles with installers and distributors.

Jeremy Kirkup, Sales Director at Vox Ignis, welcomed Gray’s appointment.

Gray said it was a privilege to join the UK manufacturer at this stage in its growth.

Vox Ignis stated that it designs and manufactures its systems in the UK.

The company sells products globally under the Vox Ignis brand and OEM partnerships.

Its systems include voice alarms, emergency communication and assistance call technology.