John Butler appointed as new president of Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

John Butler becomes first FSEDI graduate to lead Metro Chiefs

Former International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) President John Butler has been appointed president of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association, according to the IAFC.

Butler, who serves as Chief of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in Virginia, is the first graduate of the Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI) to be selected for the Metro Chiefs presidency.

The Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association operates as a joint section of the IAFC and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Metro Chiefs includes departments from North America, Australia and beyond

The IAFC explained that the Metro Chiefs Association brings together senior officers from large fire departments across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia and other countries.

According to the IAFC, the association provides a platform for leadership development, operational collaboration and peer engagement across metropolitan fire services.

It stated that the Metro Chiefs section plays a central role in shaping education and strategic direction in the wider fire sector.

Education and research partnerships central to the association’s mission

The IAFC reported that the Metro Chiefs Association maintains longstanding relationships with safety research bodies and academic institutions.

It noted that these include FM, the Firefighter Safety Research Institute (UL), the Fire Protection Research Foundation and multiple universities.

The IAFC stated that such partnerships contribute to the association’s goal of supporting evidence-based leadership and decision-making in urban fire services.

Butler to guide policy direction during one-year term

The IAFC confirmed that Butler’s term as president will last one year.

It stated that he will chair meetings, coordinate committees and contribute to the delivery of internal and external objectives.

The IAFC added that Butler’s presidency comes at a time when many large fire departments are managing structural change and operational demands.

John Butler appointed as new president of Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association: Summary

John Butler has been named president of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association.

The announcement was made by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC).

Butler is currently Chief of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department in Virginia.

He is a past president of the IAFC.

He is also the first Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI) graduate to lead the Metro Chiefs.

The Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association is a section of the IAFC and NFPA.

It includes senior fire officials from the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia and other nations.

The IAFC reported that the association partners with research bodies and universities.

These include FM, UL’s Firefighter Safety Research Institute and the Fire Protection Research Foundation.

The IAFC said Butler will serve a one-year term as president.

His responsibilities include policy guidance, committee leadership and strategic coordination.

Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year 2025 awarded to Washington official

by Featured NewsPeopleTraining

Recognition for long-term public safety efforts in Washington state

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has reported that Shawneri Guzman has been named the 2025 Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year.

Guzman is a fire and life safety educator at South County Fire in Washington state.

She will be formally recognised during the Stars at Night Awards gala at the NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas on Sunday 15 June.

The NFPA stated that the annual award is presented to one educator based in the United States or Canada who is employed by a fire department or fire marshal’s office and has shown consistent commitment to using NFPA’s educational tools.

The association added that recipients must demonstrate strong community engagement and innovation in addressing fire safety education.

Use of NFPA programmes and digital tools cited in award decision

The NFPA said Guzman was selected due to her continued integration of NFPA education programmes and tools into local initiatives since joining South County Fire in 2017.

It noted that she has applied NFPA resources to expand public awareness on topics including cooking safety, escape planning and older adult fire prevention.

According to the NFPA, Guzman also uses CRAIG 1300, a community risk assessment platform developed by NFPA, to analyse local demographics and design targeted public outreach.

The association stated that her approach to data-informed safety planning has contributed to improved community understanding of fire risks and preventative measures.

Additional safety initiatives and community impact

The NFPA reported that Guzman supports a wide range of injury prevention efforts beyond fire safety.

It said these include child passenger safety and advocacy for working smoke alarms in homes at the point of sale, including her involvement in the passing of the Gibby Act in Washington.

The association also noted her support for refugee communities through inclusive safety education.

Upcoming recognition at NFPA Conference and Expo

According to the NFPA, Guzman will be recognised at its annual Stars at Night Awards gala.

The event will be held on Sunday 15 June in Las Vegas as part of the 2025 NFPA Conference & Expo.

The NFPA added that the gala serves to honour professionals who have made measurable contributions to fire and life safety across North America.

Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year 2025 awarded to Washington official: Summary

Shawneri Guzman has been named the 2025 Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year.

The announcement was made by the National Fire Protection Association.

Guzman is employed by South County Fire in Washington state.

She will receive the award at the Stars at Night Awards gala on 15 June.

The gala will take place during the NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.

The NFPA said the award recognises educators using its resources to improve fire safety.

It said Guzman integrates NFPA programmes into her department and local community.

She uses CRAIG 1300 to develop risk-informed outreach strategies.

The NFPA stated that she promotes smoke alarm use, cooking safety and education for older adults.

It also highlighted her work on child injury prevention and smoke alarm legislation.

She was involved in the passage of the Gibby Act in Washington.

The association said she supports refugee communities through her outreach.

The NFPA described her as having over 20 years of safety education experience.

She joined South County Fire in 2017.

SFPE Foundation appoints four new board members to advance fire safety science

by Featured NewsFire EngineeringPeople
[L to R: Bryan Klein, Sean Cutting, Jonathan L. Hodges PhD, Xinyan Huang, PhD]

SFPE Foundation appoints four new members to its Board of Governors

The SFPE Foundation has announced the appointment of four new members to its Board of Governors, effective 1 May.

According to the SFPE Foundation, the new members include Sean Cutting, Director of Industry Relations, Water-based Suppression at Johnson Controls Inc., Dr Jonathan L. Hodges, Director of Modelling at Jensen Hughes, Dr Xinyan Huang, Associate Professor at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and Bryan Klein, Senior Support Engineer at Thunderhead Engineering.

The Foundation said the appointments reflect its commitment to a globally informed, interdisciplinary approach to advancing fire safety knowledge across built, social, and natural environments.

Governors bring varied expertise in fire modelling, suppression, and software

The SFPE Foundation stated that the newly appointed Governors bring professional backgrounds in computational fire modelling, wildland fire research, software development, water-based suppression systems, and fire safety education.

The Foundation added that their experience supports its research focus, which includes areas such as the Grand Challenges Initiative and wildland-urban interface (WUI) fire safety.

Dr Leslie Marshall, Director of the SFPE Foundation, said: “We’re excited to welcome Sean, Jonathan, Xinyan, and Bryan to the SFPE Foundation Board of Governors.

“Together, they bring a remarkable breadth of experience across research, innovation, and industry engagement.

“More importantly, they each share a deep commitment to furthering the Foundation’s vision of the Grand Challenges Initiative, and WUI programs.

“Their insight and leadership will be instrumental in shaping our strategic direction and amplifying the impact of our research and education programs.”

New appointees highlight the importance of global collaboration

The SFPE Foundation explained that the Board appointees represent academic, engineering, and industry sectors from North America and Asia, supporting its aim of strengthening international cooperation in fire protection science.

Sean Cutting said: “It’s an exciting time in the fire protection industry with increasing global awareness and adoption.

“What better organization than the SFPE Foundation to help advance solutions to rapidly changing hazards to provide resilient protection?”

Dr Jonathan Hodges said: “The role of fire protection engineering is evolving over time with a greater focus on wildland fires, batteries, and artificial intelligence.

“The Foundation can play a pivotal role in the global fire protection industry meeting these challenges.

“I am excited to take on a larger role in guiding the Foundation’s initiatives to improve the applied science of fire safety.”

Departing Governors recognised for their service

The SFPE Foundation also acknowledged the contributions of four outgoing members of the Board of Governors.

It reported that Ann Jeffers, Shamim Rashid-Sumar, Noah Ryder, and Manny Silva had completed their terms.

The Foundation thanked the outgoing Governors for their support of its programmes and mission, which is supported through donations from chapters, individuals, agencies, and private organisations.

SFPE Foundation appoints four new board members to advance fire safety science: Summary

The SFPE Foundation has appointed four new members to its Board of Governors.

The appointments took effect on 1 May.

The new Governors are Sean Cutting, Dr Jonathan L. Hodges, Dr Xinyan Huang, and Bryan Klein.

Their expertise includes water-based suppression systems, fire modelling, wildland fire science, and fire safety software.

Dr Leslie Marshall said the new Governors bring experience in research, innovation, and engagement.

Sean Cutting described the appointment as timely given changes in global fire protection.

Dr Jonathan Hodges said the Foundation could help address new challenges including wildfires, batteries, and AI.

The SFPE Foundation also acknowledged the contributions of four outgoing Governors.

The Foundation’s programmes are funded by donations from members, chapters, organisations, and agencies.

Sabrina Cohen-Hatton appointed to lead Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service

by Breaking NewsPeople
Image: AFAC

Sabrina Cohen-Hatton named new Chief Fire Officer in England

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service has confirmed that Sabrina Cohen-Hatton will take over as Chief Fire Officer later this year following a handover period with current CFO Neil Odin.

According to the fire service, Cohen-Hatton is currently Chief Fire Officer at West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service and previously held senior positions with London Fire Brigade and Surrey Fire and Rescue Service.

She was awarded the King’s Fire Service Medal for distinguished service and gallantry in the 2023 Birthday Honours.

Fire Authority confirms recruitment process for leadership change

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire Authority stated that the appointment followed a formal selection process.

Chairman Councillor Rhydian Vaughan MBE said: “I am pleased to announce the appointment of Sabrina as our new chief fire officer for Hampshire and Isle of Wight.”

Councillor Vaughan added: “The role of chief fire officer is one of huge responsibility, and following our rigorous recruitment process, I am certain Sabrina is the right person to lead us forward.”

He continued: “I am very much looking forward to welcoming Sabrina when she formally joins us later this year. As a fire authority we look forward to working with her and to support her in being at the helm of this incredible organisation.”

Cohen-Hatton outlines commitment to residents and colleagues

Cohen-Hatton said she was looking forward to supporting the safety of people living in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Sabrina Cohen-Hatton said: “I am truly honoured to have been appointed to lead Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and am incredibly excited to begin this new role to ensure that the Service continues to deliver for the residents of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.”

She added: “I would like to formally put on record my thanks to the Service’s current Chief Fire Officer, Neil Odin, who I have been privileged to work alongside for many years.

“I know that his time leading the Service will leave a lasting legacy that I will work with to ensure that residents in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are kept safe from the risk of fire and emergencies.”

She continued: “I am incredibly proud of the time that I spent at West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, where I was equally as privileged to work with some incredible people as we worked together to deliver the Service’s improvement plan.

“It is with a heavy heart that I leave the Service, but know that I am leaving the Service in safe hands and I take with me many fond memories and friendships.”

Cohen-Hatton concluded: “I am very much looking forward to working with all colleagues at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service to uphold all of the fantastic work that all of its teams deliver each and every day to keep the residents living and working in its communities safe.”

Incoming CFO brings frontline, academic and policy experience

The fire service stated that Cohen-Hatton joined South Wales Fire and Rescue Service in 2001 after experiencing homelessness from the age of 15.

During that time, she sold The Big Issue and later became an ambassador for the organisation.

She is also an advocate for the Homewards foundation and has previously led a partnership of uniformed youth groups under the patronage of King Charles, then Prince of Wales.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service noted that Cohen-Hatton has completed several secondments, including to the Welsh Government, HMICFRS, and served as interim Deputy Chief Fire Officer in Surrey.

She is currently the National Fire Chiefs Council’s Improvement Chair and National Lead for Working Dogs.

Alongside operational duties, Cohen-Hatton studied psychology through the Open University and Cardiff University and completed a PhD in Behavioural Neuroscience.

Her academic work on decision-making in command settings has been recognised internationally and informed policy.

She has also published research and been awarded multiple honorary doctorates.

In 2015, she was appointed Deputy Assistant Commissioner at London Fire Brigade and served as a commander during the Westminster Bridge and Finsbury Park terror attacks, and in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower fire.

Neil Odin prepares to retire after 34 years in the fire service

The fire service confirmed that Neil Odin will retire after more than three decades in the sector, including over seven years as Chief Fire Officer.

Neil Odin said: “As well as her commendable and notable professional successes over more than two decades, I have also had the privilege of working with Sabrina for many years.”

He added: “Embodying our Service Values, Sabrina will bring a fresh outlook, strong leadership skills, and invaluable experience, ensuring the Service continues to adapt, improve and thrive.”

Odin continued: “I know that she will find Hampshire and Isle of Wight a great place to work, and receive a warm welcome from the staff, partners and communities.”

Sabrina Cohen-Hatton appointed to lead Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service: Summary

Sabrina Cohen-Hatton has been appointed Chief Fire Officer for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service.

The appointment was announced by the fire authority following a formal selection process.

Cohen-Hatton will succeed Neil Odin after a handover period later in 2025.

She is currently Chief Fire Officer at West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.

Her previous roles include senior positions at London Fire Brigade and Surrey Fire and Rescue Service.

Cohen-Hatton joined South Wales Fire and Rescue Service in 2001.

She has been awarded the King’s Fire Service Medal and holds a PhD in Behavioural Neuroscience.

Her research has influenced incident command policy internationally.

She is also a published author and advocate for several charitable initiatives.

Neil Odin is retiring after 34 years in the fire service.

He served more than seven years as Chief Fire Officer at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service.

Paul Eagle appointed Chair of BESA Technical Committee

by Featured NewsFire EngineeringPeopleSafety

BESA appoints new committee Chair to support technical development

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has appointed Paul Eagle as the new Chair of its Technical Committee.

According to BESA, Eagle replaces Kevin Morrissey, who was recently promoted to the role of Director of Technical.

Paul Eagle is currently Executive Board Technical Director at Dalkia UK.

He has over 25 years of experience in building services, including senior engineering and technical leadership roles.

He is a Chartered Manager and Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute, as well as a Member of the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers and the Institution of Engineering and Technology.

BESA stated that his industry background positions him to lead the Committee through current regulatory and technological developments.

Leadership transition at the Building Engineering Services Association

Paul Eagle’s appointment follows Kevin Morrissey’s move to BESA’s senior leadership.

Reflecting on his time as Chair, Kevin Morrissey said: “Serving as Chair of the BESA Technical Committee has been a rewarding experience, and I am confident that Paul Eagle’s leadership will further enhance our technical initiatives. His deep industry knowledge and dedication to excellence will undoubtedly benefit BESA and its members.”

BESA has confirmed that Eagle will now lead the Technical Committee in setting direction for the association’s engineering standards and guidance.

Eagle’s industry experience and affiliations

Paul Eagle brings extensive qualifications and experience to the role.

In addition to his work at Dalkia UK, he holds credentials from several professional bodies.

He is a CMgr FCMI, MCIBSE and MIET.

These affiliations reflect both his technical background and his involvement with leadership and professional development in the sector.

BESA noted that his combined experience will support the Committee’s ongoing technical work.

Eagle outlines priorities for technical direction

Paul Eagle said he looks forward to building on the work of his predecessor.

He stated: “I am honoured to take on the role of Chair of the BESA Technical Committee. Building upon the solid foundation established by Kevin, I look forward to collaborating with industry professionals to drive innovation, uphold high standards, and address the evolving challenges in building engineering services.”

BESA added that the Technical Committee will continue to provide support and direction for members under Eagle’s leadership.

Paul Eagle appointed Chair of BESA Technical Committee: Summary

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has appointed Paul Eagle, Executive Board Technical Director at Dalkia UK, as Chair of its Technical Committee.

He succeeds Kevin Morrissey, who has been named Director of Technical.

Eagle has over 25 years of experience in the building services sector and holds several professional qualifications, including CMgr FCMI, MCIBSE and MIET.

Morrissey said Eagle’s knowledge and commitment will support BESA’s technical work.

Eagle said he aims to maintain high standards and respond to industry challenges.

The appointment is intended to guide the Technical Committee through upcoming regulatory and technological developments.

Multitone’s emergency services work and employee culture highlighted by key account manager

by Featured News
Left to Right: Kris Macdonald, Tom Payne, Rebecca Taylor, Jason Humphreys.

Multitone’s UK emergency services approach sees direct tender strategy success

Multitone’s Key Account Manager Kris Macdonald has reflected on the company’s direct-to-customer strategy in the UK’s emergency services sector and its impact over the past year.

According to Multitone, the company’s shift to directly delivering its Station End solutions to Fire and Rescue Services has led to four successful tender wins in 2024.

Macdonald said the strategy has proven the ability of a smaller team to compete effectively: “This new approach has proven incredibly fruitful, resulting in four large tender wins this year. These victories are particularly significant because they demonstrate the strength and effectiveness of our relatively small team.”

Company culture and employee experience at Multitone

Kris Macdonald joined Multitone Electronics in October 2023.

He said that his experience at the company has exceeded expectations and highlighted the workplace environment as a key factor: “Sometimes working in a company does not match the expectations set during the interview. However, for me, it matches perfectly and fulfils everything promised.”

He also noted the long employee tenures as evidence of the internal culture: “It’s a testament to Multitone and its culture that so many members of staff have been here for 30/40 years.”

Delivering solutions to Fire and Rescue Services

Macdonald manages emergency services accounts and said that providing GD92-approved Station End equipment for Fire and Rescue Services is a core part of his work.

He said: “The pride you get from knowing that your solutions are helping save and protect lives and enable first responders to have all the information at their fingertips as quickly as possible – and with many back up methods also.”

Multitone has traditionally worked through partners but has recently taken a more direct approach to delivery within this sector.

Internal collaboration and leadership priorities

Macdonald outlined three key reasons for strong employee retention and engagement at the company: innovation, teamwork, and leadership.

“Firstly, Multitone fosters innovation. The company isn’t afraid to evolve and adapt and is constantly exploring new technologies and approaches,” he said.

He also credited the collaborative team environment and long-term development opportunities: “This dynamic environment offers continuous learning and development opportunities.”

Macdonald added that clear leadership direction supports a culture of purpose and stability.

Multitone’s emergency services work and employee culture highlighted by key account manager: Summary

Kris Macdonald joined Multitone Electronics in October 2023 and is a Key Account Manager for emergency services.

In 2024, Multitone secured four direct tender wins through a new customer strategy aimed at Fire and Rescue Services.

Macdonald attributed this success to the effectiveness of the team and the shift from partner-led to direct service delivery.

He highlighted Multitone’s internal culture, employee retention, and technical knowledge as key strengths.

Long employee tenure was cited as a reflection of a positive workplace environment.

He said innovation, strong team collaboration, and leadership contribute to Multitone’s operations.

Multitone provides GD92-approved Station End solutions for Fire and Rescue Services in the UK.

Statements were made by Macdonald in a company-published interview.

Victaulic announces leadership change as Gary Moore retires and Mark Gilbert is appointed

by Featured NewsPeople

Long-serving Victaulic executive to retire at the end of April

Victaulic has announced that Gary Moore, Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer, will retire at the end of April 2025 following 37 years with the company.

According to Victaulic, Moore will be succeeded by Mark Gilbert, who currently holds leadership roles across both the U.S. and international markets.

Gilbert will assume the position of Executive Vice President of Sales on 1 May 2025.

Moore joined Victaulic in 1988 as a sales representative in Canada and went on to hold several senior roles including Vice President of Sales, and President of Victaulic Company of Canada, Limited.

Most recently, he served on the executive leadership team at World Headquarters in Pennsylvania.

Career milestones and industry contributions

Throughout his tenure, Moore played a central role in shaping the company’s sales strategy and organisational structure.

Victaulic stated that his leadership has contributed to both revenue growth and product development initiatives.

Moore also served in several external leadership roles in the construction sector.

He was the National Director of the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada’s Supplier Council, and spent over two decades with the U.S.-based MCAA Manufacturer Supplier Council.

He was a member of the Board of Directors for five years and served as Chairman in 2009.

Victaulic Chairman John Malloy said: “Gary Moore has had as much to do with Victaulic’s growth over the last 20 years as anyone.

“His greatest legacies are the Victaulic sales organisation as it stands today, the leadership of this organisation, and the careers Gary has created for such a talented group of individuals.”

Mark Gilbert to take on global sales leadership

Mark Gilbert, who will succeed Moore, has over 30 years of experience at Victaulic.

After graduating from Purdue University, he started his career as a sales representative in the Baltimore/Washington D.C. area.

His experience spans several international leadership roles.

These include positions in Dubai and Belgium, covering the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, as well as a recent position as Vice President in the United States.

Richard A. Bucher, President and CEO of Victaulic, said: “Mark’s extensive knowledge of our business, coupled with his proven ability to work cross-functionally positions him well to continue our tradition of excellence while forging new paths to market leadership.”

Statements from outgoing and incoming executives

Moore commented on his retirement: “It has been the privilege of my professional life to serve Victaulic for nearly four decades.

“I’m incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished in expanding our global presence and developing innovative solutions that have transformed the construction industry.

“The relationships built with customers, partners, and especially my Victaulic colleagues have been the most rewarding aspect of my career.

“I’m confident that Mark’s leadership will take the company to even greater heights, and I look forward to seeing Victaulic’s continued success in this next chapter.”

Gilbert also shared his outlook for the future: “I’m committed to progressing Victaulic’s industry leadership while delivering exceptional value to our customers worldwide.

“By leveraging our team’s collective expertise and fostering an environment of innovation, we will continue to develop unique and efficient solutions that advance our market-focused partnerships and strategic global growth.”

Victaulic announces leadership change as Gary Moore retires and Mark Gilbert is appointed: Summary

Victaulic has announced the retirement of Gary Moore, Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer, effective at the end of April 2025.

Moore joined the company in 1988 and held multiple leadership roles across Canada and the United States.

He contributed to the company’s revenue growth and represented Victaulic in industry bodies including the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada and the MCAA in the U.S.

Mark Gilbert will succeed Moore on 1 May 2025.

Gilbert has worked at Victaulic for more than 30 years and held roles across North America, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.

He most recently served as Vice President in the U.S.

and General Manager for EMEA.

The company stated that Gilbert’s experience and leadership are expected to support continued global sales growth.

Both Moore and Gilbert issued statements reflecting on their careers and expressing confidence in the company’s direction.

John O’Hara appointed CEO of TracPlus in leadership change

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured NewsPeople

Leadership change at TracPlus confirmed

TracPlus has announced the appointment of John O’Hara as its new Chief Executive Officer.

The company, based in New Zealand, provides mission-critical tracking and intelligence tools for aerial firefighting operations.

O’Hara previously served as Chairman of the Board for TracPlus for four years.

O’Hara brings aviation and technology experience

TracPlus said that O’Hara has a background in both aviation and information technology.

According to the company, this combination of experience aligns with the organisation’s goal of supporting aerial firefighting operations through improved mission management tools.

Mark Vivian, Chairman of the Board at TracPlus, said: “John O’Hara’s extensive experience in aviation, technology, and strategic growth, combined with his deep knowledge of TracPlus, makes him the ideal leader to propel our company forward.”

Role includes strategic direction and operations

In his new role as CEO, O’Hara will oversee company operations and guide its future strategy.

TracPlus stated that O’Hara will focus on developing new capabilities, building industry partnerships, and enhancing safety for firefighting teams.

Vivian added: “His vision and leadership will be instrumental in expanding TracPlus’ capabilities, strengthening our industry partnerships, and delivering next-generation solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety for aerial firefighting teams worldwide.”

O’Hara outlines objectives for TracPlus

O’Hara said he intends to continue advancing TracPlus’ tools and services for firefighting agencies.

He said: “TracPlus is at the forefront of empowering aerial firefighting teams globally to turn their data into strategic action, improving decision-making and driving better mission outcomes.”

He continued: “I am honoured to lead this company in its mission to equip agencies and operators with the tools they need to protect communities, resources, and lives.

“With my deep understanding of TracPlus and its capabilities, I am committed to driving continuous innovation, delivering best-in-class solutions, and ensuring our customers have the insights they need to make faster, smarter, and safer decisions in the face of evolving wildfire threats.”

John O’Hara appointed CEO of TracPlus in leadership change: Summary

TracPlus has appointed John O’Hara as its Chief Executive Officer.

O’Hara served as Chairman of the Board of TracPlus for four years.

TracPlus stated that he has a background in both aviation and technology.

The company is based in New Zealand and provides tracking and intelligence tools for aerial firefighting.

Mark Vivian, Chairman of the Board, said O’Hara’s leadership will support the expansion of capabilities and services.

O’Hara said he aims to help firefighting teams improve mission outcomes by delivering data-driven tools.

His responsibilities will include guiding company strategy and operational development.

The announcement was made by TracPlus.

IOSH appoints new Chair and four trustees to its Board

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyPeople

IOSH confirms leadership changes with UK-based Chair appointment

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has announced that Ruth Boumphrey will become Chair of its Board of Trustees on 27 May 2025.

Boumphrey currently serves as Chief Executive of Lloyd’s Register Foundation and brings experience in research, development and regulation.

She will succeed Bobby Chakravarthy, who has acted as interim Chair since Professor Peter Bonfield stepped down in 2024 to take up a UK Government appointment.

Boumphrey holds additional roles as a Non-executive Director of the UK Government’s Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (Cefas) and as a Commissioner for the National Preparedness Commission.

She said: “I’m delighted to be the next Chair of IOSH’s Board of Trustees, and look forward to working with IOSH and its members around the world in delivering its vision of a safe and healthy world of work.

“This vision is very close to my heart and aligns with our mission at Lloyd’s Register Foundation, so I hope to bring and share knowledge, networks and insights that help amplify IOSH’s impact globally.”

IOSH adds four new trustees to Board

Alongside the appointment of Boumphrey as Chair, four new trustees have also joined the IOSH Board.

Arlette Anderson and Sonia Whiteley have been named as member trustees, while David Auger and Stuart Stockley take up positions as independent trustees.

Anderson is a Chartered Fellow of IOSH and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment. Her previous work has focused on cultural change in multinational organisations. She has served on IOSH’s Performance and Development Committee.

Whiteley, also a Chartered IOSH Fellow, is Vice-Chair of the Essex Branch. She has over 20 years’ experience in occupational safety and health and is currently Head of Health and Safety at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

Independent trustees bring business and industry experience

David Auger joins the Board as an independent trustee following a 35-year career in finance.

He is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and has held senior roles in manufacturing companies. His previous posts include Chief Finance Officer and Board Advisor to a global shipping group.

Stuart Stockley also joins as an independent trustee. He has over 20 years of experience in senior positions within the building materials industry across the UK and Europe.

His background includes work in commercial, operational, sales and marketing, category management and e-commerce roles.

Board transition marks the end of current trustees’ terms

The announcement also marks the conclusion of terms for three long-serving trustees: Simon Hatson, John Green and David Blower.

IOSH extended its thanks to the departing members, as well as to Bobby Chakravarthy for his service as interim Chair.

Chakravarthy will remain on the Board as an independent trustee once Boumphrey assumes the role of Chair.

BSIF CEO Alan Murray honoured with SHE Awards 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

Award recognises decades of service to UK safety and health sector

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has reported that its Chief Executive Officer, Alan Murray, has been presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Safety & Health Excellence (SHE) Awards 2025.

The award was given during a ceremony at the VOX Conference Centre in Birmingham attended by over 700 industry professionals.

According to BSIF, the award recognises Murray’s decades-long contribution to the UK’s safety and health sector and comes ahead of his planned retirement later in the year.

Murray will take up the position of Executive Chairman of BSIF following his departure as CEO.

Alan Murray’s leadership and career history

Murray joined BSIF in 2014 following a career in senior commercial roles in the safety and health sector.

He previously worked with Scott Safety and Kimberly-Clark, where he supported the development of workwear and protective clothing alongside existing paper-based products.

Earlier in his career, Murray held a leadership role at the London Rubber Company, helping develop hand protection products under the Durex and Marigold brands.

BSIF stated that Murray’s leadership had supported membership growth and increased influence for the organisation across the UK.

Murray’s contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic

BSIF noted Murray’s involvement in managing safety equipment supply standards during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under his leadership, the Federation supported the use of the Registered Safety Supplier Scheme to help ensure that personal protective equipment (PPE) supplied to workers met appropriate UK compliance requirements.

Murray also served as President of the European Safety Federation from 2019, completing two terms, and was named Honorary President of Safety Groups UK in 2024.

Industry response and future role

Chairman of BSIF, John Gill, commended Murray for his leadership and lasting impact on the organisation and the broader industry.

Gill said: “Alan has been instrumental in guiding BSIF to the influential position it holds today.

His unwavering commitment to safety, integrity, and standards has ensured our members not only thrive but serve the nation with products and services that truly protect lives.”

He added: “The Lifetime Achievement Award is a fitting recognition of a career dedicated to making the UK one of the safest places to work in the world.”

BSIF stated that the Federation and its members welcomed Murray’s transition into the role of Executive Chairman and expressed appreciation for his continued guidance.

BSIF CEO Alan Murray honoured with SHE Awards 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award: Summary

Alan Murray, CEO of the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF), has received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Safety & Health Excellence (SHE) Awards.

The event was held at the VOX Conference Centre in Birmingham with over 700 attendees.

Murray is set to retire later this year and will become Executive Chairman of BSIF.

His career includes roles at Scott Safety, Kimberly-Clark, and London Rubber Company.

He joined BSIF in 2014.

During his tenure, BSIF implemented measures to ensure PPE compliance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Murray served two terms as President of the European Safety Federation and was appointed Honorary President of Safety Groups UK in 2024.

BSIF Chairman John Gill highlighted Murray’s role in expanding the Federation’s influence.

The organisation stated it looks forward to Murray’s continued involvement in his upcoming position.