Vladimir Zrnic appointed Global Portfolio Manager at Advanced

Leadership change strengthens Advanced’s product development focus

Advanced has reported that Vladimir Zrnic has been appointed Global Portfolio Manager within its Products team.

Zrnic previously led European sales for Advanced for seven years.

According to Advanced, he was involved in developing customer relationships across Europe and tailoring fire safety solutions to a variety of sectors.

The company stated that in his new role, Zrnic will contribute to shaping the organisation’s product portfolio by using his technical background and industry knowledge.

Zrnic moves from European sales to product leadership

Advanced stated that Zrnic’s transition marks a shift from a regional sales focus to a global product management role.

The company described his previous work in sales as being driven by technical insight and customer engagement.

Zrnic said: “This new opportunity allows me to combine my technical and market knowledge to help shape Advanced’s future offerings. I’m excited to play a central role in ensuring we continue to develop innovative solutions that meet the needs of our customers and partners globally.”

Technical expertise to inform future offerings

According to Advanced, Zrnic will be responsible for aligning product development with global market demands.

The company said that this appointment is part of its broader strategy to bring customer feedback and technical insight directly into product planning.

Zrnic added: “I’d like to thank everyone I’ve worked with during my time in European sales, and I look forward to continuing to collaborate in my new capacity.”

Internal progression at Advanced

Advanced stated that this role change reflects its approach to internal development and strategic alignment.

The company said that Zrnic’s move is intended to strengthen how product strategies are developed and delivered.

No additional changes to the Products team structure were announced at this time.

Vladimir Zrnic appointed Global Portfolio Manager at Advanced: Summary

Advanced has announced the appointment of Vladimir Zrnic as its new Global Portfolio Manager. He previously led European sales for seven years.

In his new position, Zrnic will focus on product development, drawing on his technical and market knowledge.

According to Advanced, the role is designed to align products with customer requirements globally.

Zrnic said he is looking forward to contributing to the company’s future offerings and thanked colleagues he worked with in his previous role.

The company stated that this change supports its strategy of incorporating technical insight into product planning

Dr Lori Moore-Merrell joins FireDome advisory board to support wildfire defence system

FireDome appoints Dr Lori Moore-Merrell to its advisory board

FireDome has announced that Dr Lori Moore-Merrell, former United States Fire Administrator, has joined its advisory board.

As reported by FireDome, Dr Moore-Merrell brings more than 30 years of experience in public safety leadership.

She has worked in senior roles across federal government and international organisations, specialising in strategic planning, emergency response, big data analytics, and translating fire safety research into policy.

Wildfire system based on defence technologies

FireDome is developing an autonomous system to defend against wildfires using technology based on Israel’s Iron Dome air defence system.

The company’s approach involves two main elements.

A mechanical launcher deploys fire retardant capsules to build a barrier against spreading wildfires.

Simultaneously, AI-powered computer vision identifies and extinguishes spot fires started by embers that pass the barrier.

The solution is designed to operate independently of water and power infrastructure and is intended for use in remote or off-grid locations.

Dr Moore-Merrell highlights potential benefits to US communities

In a statement, Dr Moore-Merrell said: “I’m deeply impressed with FireDome’s innovative approach and the remarkable progress the team has achieved thus far.

“I believe U.S. communities, policy makers, property owners, utility officials, and fire chiefs will recognize FireDome as a transformative technology that can significantly enhance wildfire protection.

“Fully implemented, FireDome will provide large scale wildfire defense solutions and ensure community resilience and sustainability in the years ahead.”

Her previous work includes advising senior staff at the White House and working with cabinet officials and industry leaders to improve firefighter operational practices.

Advisory board includes international expertise

Dr Moore-Merrell joins other members of FireDome’s advisory board, including Seth Schalet, CEO of the Santa Clara County FireSafe Council, Brig.

Gen. (Ret) Pinhas Yungman of Israel’s defence sector, Gabriel Gross, a parametric insurance specialist based in France, and Lior Libman, an entrepreneur with expertise in artificial intelligence and high-growth startups.

FireDome CEO and co-founder Gadi Benjamini said: “Dr. Moore-Merrell’s deep knowledge of fire science, emergency response, and data-driven risk assessment aligns perfectly with FireDome’s mission to create an innovative, autonomous wildfire defense solution.

“Her leadership experience will be instrumental in helping us bring a practical and effective fire prevention system to market and fulfill FireDome’s vision of enhancing community safety from wildfires.”

Dr Lori Moore-Merrell joins FireDome advisory board to support wildfire defence system: Summary

FireDome has appointed Dr Lori Moore-Merrell to its advisory board.

Dr Moore-Merrell is the former United States Fire Administrator and has more than 30 years of experience in emergency response, policy development, and public safety data analysis.

She has advised at the highest levels of government and worked internationally on fire safety issues.

FireDome is developing an autonomous wildfire defence system that uses a mechanical launcher to deploy fire retardant and AI-powered technology to detect and extinguish embers.

The system operates without the need for local power or water infrastructure.

FireDome’s advisory board also includes experts from defence, insurance, technology, and public safety sectors.

The company is collaborating with initial users to test and improve the system.

FireDome aims to offer large-scale wildfire defence capability through automated, data-supported technologies.

Sarah Dixon appointed as CEO of Compliance Group in the UK

Compliance Group appoints new CEO to lead UK operations

Compliance Group has announced the appointment of Sarah Dixon as its new Chief Executive Officer.

As reported by Compliance Group, Dixon will take over leadership responsibilities across the organisation’s operations in the United Kingdom.

Dixon previously held the position of Managing Director for Johnson Controls’ fire and security businesses in the UK and Ireland.

Sarah Dixon brings 25 years of experience across compliance sectors

According to Compliance Group, Dixon has worked in compliance-focused industries for more than two decades.

Her experience spans field operations, commercial leadership, and executive management roles across sectors including fire safety, security, lifts, escalators and access systems.

She has managed businesses ranging from 50 to 2,000 employees and has led the successful completion and integration of over a dozen acquisitions.

Board and CEO statements on new leadership direction

Mark Davies, Chairman of Compliance Group, commented on the appointment: “I’m delighted to welcome Sarah as our new CEO.

“She is a visionary leader known for her ability to accelerate growth and build high performing teams.

“Sarah joins us at an exciting time as we further strengthen our mission to be the UK’s most highly regarded compliance group, providing high quality fire safety, electrical compliance and water hygiene services to all our clients, delivered with technical excellence by our outstanding teams and with leading-edge technology.”

Dixon also shared her response to the new role: “I am honoured and excited to join the team at Compliance Group.

“I look forward to working closely with the board, leadership team, and employees to drive the next chapter, delivering exceptional value to our customers, and building upon the strong foundation that has been laid.”

Background of Compliance Group’s operations

Compliance Group was established in 2019 and operates across fire, electrical and water compliance sectors in the UK.

Its model involves specialist divisions that provide services tailored to regulatory requirements in each area.

The organisation serves sectors such as education, healthcare, care homes, local authorities, retail, leisure, media and more.

Sarah Dixon appointed as CEO of Compliance Group in the UK: Summary

Compliance Group has appointed Sarah Dixon as its Chief Executive Officer.

Dixon was previously Managing Director for Johnson Controls’ fire and security businesses in the UK and Ireland.

She has more than 25 years of experience across fire safety, security, lift and access sectors.

Dixon has overseen teams of various sizes and led more than 12 acquisitions.

Mark Davies, Chairman of Compliance Group, welcomed the appointment, citing her leadership and team-building capabilities.

Dixon said she looks forward to delivering continued value to clients.

Compliance Group was founded in 2019 and provides integrated safety and regulatory compliance services across the fire, electrical and water sectors.

The company operates through specialist divisions and works with clients in sectors including education, healthcare, care homes, local authorities, retail and more.

“I am ready to lead”: UK fire leadership transition as Phil Garrigan assumes NFCC Chair role

Phil Garrigan appointed as Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council

Phil Garrigan OBE KFSM has officially started his term as Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), the body has announced.

Garrigan assumed the position on 1 April 2025, following the conclusion of Mark Hardingham’s four-year tenure on 31 March.

Garrigan was elected to the role by NFCC Members in September 2024.

Garrigan has now stepped down from his post as Chief Fire Officer of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.

He served with the service for 35 years and was Chief Fire Officer since 2017.

NFCC Chair responsibilities and sector priorities

As Chair, Garrigan will provide professional advice to Government, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Minister responsible for fire and rescue services.

He will also work with His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, national employers and sector organisations across the UK and internationally.

Garrigan said: “It is an honour to take on the role of Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council and to build on the legacy that Mark Hardingham leaves as he starts his well-earned retirement.”

He added: “Our sector faces significant challenges ahead, particularly as we grapple with increasing risk, emerging threats associated with climate changes and a growing gap between demand and resource.

“But I am ready to lead, ensuring that fire and rescue services are fit for the future.”

Phil Garrigan’s background in the fire service

Phil Garrigan joined Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service in 1990.

He held several senior positions before being appointed Chief Fire Officer in 2017.

Garrigan also served as Vice-Chair of the NFCC and was previously the NFCC Lead for Children and Young People.

He received the King’s Fire Service Medal in the 2024 New Year Honours.

Reflecting on his career and leadership approach, Garrigan said: “Having worked closely with some of the most vulnerable and deprived communities in the UK, I have continually strived to put those communities at the heart of everything we do in the fire and rescue service.

That is something I want to emulate at a national level.”

New Vice-Chairs appointed alongside Garrigan

Kathryn Billing and Rick Hylton have also been appointed as Vice-Chairs of the NFCC.

Both will serve in this capacity while continuing as Chief Fire Officers in their respective services.

Billing joined Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service as an on-call firefighter in 2000 and became Chief Fire Officer in 2021.

She has served as NFCC lead for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and is a Director for Women in the Fire Service.

Rick Hylton began his career with Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service in 1997.

He joined Essex County Fire and Rescue Service in 2019 and became Chief Fire Officer in 2022.

He has chaired the NFCC Prevention Committee since 2023.

Phil Garrigan appointed as Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council: Summary

Phil Garrigan began his term as Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council on 1 April 2025.

He was elected in September 2024 and succeeds Mark Hardingham, who served for four years.

Garrigan steps down as Chief Fire Officer of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, where he worked for 35 years.

In his new role, Garrigan will provide professional advice to Government and work with sector bodies.

He previously served as NFCC Vice-Chair and NFCC Lead for Children and Young People.

He was awarded the King’s Fire Service Medal in 2024.

Two new Vice-Chairs, Kathryn Billing and Rick Hylton, were appointed by Garrigan.

Billing is Chief Fire Officer of Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service and previously held national roles in equality and diversity.

Hylton is Chief Fire Officer of Essex County Fire and Rescue Service and Chair of the NFCC Prevention Committee.

The NFCC confirmed that the Chair role carries an initial two-year term, with the option for renewal.

TOA UK MD Ian Bridgewater receives ISCVE Fellowship recognition

ISCVE Board awards Fellowship to TOA UK’s Ian Bridgewater

TOA Corporation has reported that Ian Bridgewater, Managing Director of TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd, has been made a Fellow of the Institute of Sound, Communication and Visual Engineers (ISCVE).

The announcement was made at ISCVE’s recent AGM, conference and exhibition.

According to TOA Corporation, the Institute’s Board selected Bridgewater for Fellowship in recognition of his service to the audio and AV industry.

Bridgewater has worked at TOA for more than 30 years.

He started as an engineer and later became Technical Director before being appointed Managing Director in 2024.

Industry service highlighted in ISCVE recognition

Bridgewater responded to the news of his Fellowship by saying: “I am truly humbled and delighted to become a Fellow of ISCVE.

“It was a real surprise and not something I was expecting at all.

“Receiving it is a real honour and I am thrilled to be able to continue to fly the flag for audio and the AV industry as a whole.”

The ISCVE Board stated that the decision to award the Fellowship was based on Bridgewater’s long-standing commitment to the sector and his contribution to the Institute.

ISCVE Board praises long service and industry impact

Ros Wigmore, Business Manager of ISCVE, commented on the award: “Ian is a worthy recipient of the Fellowship.

“The Board were so pleased to be able to celebrate his achievements and his long service to both the Institute and the industry.”

The Fellowship is one of the highest forms of recognition awarded by ISCVE.

It acknowledges individuals who have shown dedication and long-term involvement in professional audio, communication, and visual engineering.

Recognition specific to UK audio and AV sectors

The Fellowship was awarded during the Institute’s UK-based event, making the recognition specific to the British audio and AV industry.

TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd is a provider of voice alarm, public address, and audio communications systems across the country.

Bridgewater’s role as Managing Director is based in the UK and his service has been primarily within the domestic market.

Ian Bridgewater receives ISCVE Fellowship recognition: Summary

Ian Bridgewater, Managing Director of TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd, has been awarded a Fellowship by the Institute of Sound, Communication and Visual Engineers.

The announcement was made at ISCVE’s AGM, conference and exhibition.

Bridgewater has served at TOA for more than 30 years in roles including engineer, Technical Director, and, from 2024, Managing Director.

He stated that the recognition was unexpected and expressed gratitude for the honour.

The ISCVE Board awarded the Fellowship for Bridgewater’s service to the audio and AV industry.

Ros Wigmore, ISCVE Business Manager, stated that the Board was pleased to acknowledge his contributions.

The award relates to his work in the UK audio sector.

The recognition was given by ISCVE in the UK.

Bridgewater’s work at TOA Corporation (UK) Ltd continues.

Nigeria’s NEMA reflects on first year under Zubaida Umar

Leadership and response to national disasters

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has marked one year since the appointment of Zubaida Umar as Director General on 15 March 2024.

According to the National Emergency Management Agency, Umar’s tenure has seen operational reforms, enhanced disaster response mechanisms, and improved inter-agency collaboration.

One of the most notable events during her first year was the agency’s response to the 2024 nationwide floods, which affected millions across Nigeria.

Under her leadership, NEMA coordinated relief efforts, deployed emergency response teams, and worked with state governments and humanitarian organisations to support affected communities.

The agency also strengthened early warning systems, issuing alerts that helped mitigate loss of life and property.

Strengthening early warning and disaster preparedness

NEMA reported that it has reinforced its early warning systems to improve disaster preparedness.

These measures included issuing advance flood alerts to communities and deploying prepositioned rescue teams to ensure rapid response.

During the 2024 floods, NEMA stated that response teams were deployed within hours of reported incidents, providing temporary shelters, food, and medical aid.

Collaboration with the Nigerian Armed Forces, Red Cross, United Nations agencies, and other humanitarian organisations helped facilitate coordinated relief efforts.

The agency has also launched public awareness initiatives aimed at educating communities on disaster preparedness.

Special focus has been placed on rural populations, equipping them with knowledge to respond effectively in emergencies.

Technology and capacity building in emergency management

According to NEMA, the past year has seen the introduction of technology-driven solutions to improve response efficiency.

A centralized emergency response dashboard was launched to enable real-time monitoring of disaster situations and faster mobilisation of resources.

Additionally, staff and volunteers have undergone training in disaster management, risk reduction, and emergency response coordination.

These capacity-building efforts aim to enhance NEMA’s ability to handle future disasters effectively.

Collaboration with local and international partners

NEMA stated that it has expanded partnerships with both local and international organisations to strengthen its capacity.

The agency has worked with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to secure technical and material support for disaster response.

Through these collaborations, NEMA has gained additional resources for humanitarian aid, training programmes, and strategic disaster management planning.

The agency continues to engage with various stakeholders to improve Nigeria’s emergency preparedness.

Nigeria’s NEMA reflects on first year under Zubaida Umar: Summary

NEMA has marked one year since Zubaida Umar took office as Director General on 15 March 2024.

During this period, the agency reported improvements in disaster response, early warning systems, and inter-agency collaboration.

In 2024, NEMA responded to nationwide floods by deploying emergency teams, distributing relief materials, and coordinating evacuations with state governments and humanitarian organisations.

The agency also launched a centralized emergency response dashboard and implemented public awareness campaigns on disaster preparedness.

Additionally, NEMA stated that it strengthened partnerships with international bodies such as UNOCHA and ECOWAS to enhance its emergency response capacity.

The agency continues to focus on training staff and volunteers to improve disaster management efforts.

FM secures representation on IWMA Scientific Council

Dr Xiangyang Zhou joins IWMA Scientific Council

The International Water Mist Association (IWMA) has announced that Dr Xiangyang Zhou has joined its Scientific Council.

His appointment marks the return of FM representation to the council following a two-year absence.

Dr Zhou, a Senior Lead Research Scientist, has extensive experience in fire protection research, specialising in sprinkler and water mist systems.

He applied for a seat on the council in February 2025 and was accepted.

Background on FM’s involvement with IWMA

FM was previously represented on the IWMA Scientific Council by Dr Hong-Zeng Yu.

Following Dr Yu’s retirement two years ago, the organisation had no representative on the council until Dr Zhou’s recent appointment.

Dr Zhou has worked extensively in the field of water mist fire protection and is currently engaged in research aimed at advancing its applications.

His role on the council will involve contributing to the development of fire suppression technology through scientific collaboration.

Dr Zhou’s perspective on the appointment

Dr Zhou expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to join the council: “I am very grateful and happy to be approved as a member of the IWMA Scientific Council.

“I have worked at FM for years on the research of water mist fire protection and am currently working on a project to develop its application.

“I will be very happy to work with the Scientific Council and contribute my knowledge to advance the development of water mist fire protection worldwide.”

The role of the IWMA Scientific Council

The IWMA Scientific Council comprises experts from various sectors who contribute to the study and development of water mist fire protection.

The council collaborates on research projects, evaluates new technologies, and provides insights into regulatory and safety standards.

With Dr Zhou’s appointment, FM re-establishes its presence in the council’s discussions on fire protection advancements.

Meiko UK appoints new sales leadership team from April 2025

Image: Phil Walley, Sales Director [left]; Tim Harris, Head of National Accounts [right].

Leadership changes at Meiko UK

Meiko UK has announced several key leadership appointments, effective 1 April 2025.

The changes include a new Sales Director, a Head of National Accounts, and two Senior Regional Managers.

Phil Walley has been appointed Sales Director.

Meiko UK stated that Walley brings extensive industry experience and will focus on developing sales strategies and strengthening client relationships across all sectors.

Tim Harris will take on the role of Head of National Accounts.

According to Meiko UK, Harris’ experience in managing large-scale accounts will be central to expanding national reach and maintaining high service standards.

New regional management appointments

Meiko UK has also named Lee Hackett and Ross Genner as Senior Regional Managers.

The company stated that both Hackett and Genner have a strong understanding of regional market dynamics and will focus on team leadership, business growth, and customer satisfaction.

Meiko UK said these appointments align with its strategy to enhance client service and strengthen its market position.

Retirement of Steve Evans

Steve Evans, current Sales Director of Meiko UK, will retire at the end of March 2025.

The company acknowledged Evans’ contributions, highlighting his leadership and guidance during his tenure.

Meiko UK expressed appreciation for Evans’ role within the senior management team and extended well wishes for his retirement.

Meiko UK appoints new sales leadership team from April 2025: Summary

Meiko UK has announced several leadership appointments effective 1 April 2025.

Phil Walley has been named Sales Director, focusing on sales strategy and client relationships.

Tim Harris has been appointed Head of National Accounts, with a focus on national expansion and service quality.

Lee Hackett and Ross Genner will take on Senior Regional Manager roles, responsible for regional growth and customer engagement.

The company has also confirmed the retirement of Sales Director Steve Evans at the end of March 2025, recognising his leadership and contributions.

Meiko UK stated that these changes are part of its efforts to strengthen its sales team and market presence.

Northumberland fire chiefs suspended following cultural review

Council suspends chief and deputy chief fire officers

Northumberland County Council has suspended Chief Fire Officer Graeme Binning and Deputy Chief Fire Officer Jim McNeil following a review into the organisational culture of Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, according to ITV News.

Senior council figures were informed of the decision at a meeting on Tuesday.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service previously reported that an independent review had been commissioned to assess workplace culture after concerns were raised.

ITV News had attempted to contact both officers for comment but had not received a response.

Independent review findings under consideration

Northumberland County Council confirmed in early February that an external company had been appointed to conduct the review, allowing staff to provide feedback.

The findings of the review have now been received by the council.

A Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “A neutral assessment at the Service has been undertaken.

“We are now considering its findings and taking the necessary next steps in this process.”

They added: “The safety of our residents is paramount and our operational command cover and procedures are secure.

“We cannot comment on individual staffing matters.”

Fire Brigades Union raises safety concerns

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) expressed concerns about the leadership suspensions and their potential impact on safety.

FBU Regional Secretary Brian Harris told ITV News: “In terms of anything major happening, any major incidents, they do form part of Gold Command, so anything major would be a real safety concern in terms of us, our members and the public.”

He added: “We’re really concerned about the command structure.

They are operational, they form part of the command structure all the way from the top down to a firefighter, and we have concerns about that level of command and control.”

Interim leadership appointed

Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service has announced the appointment of an interim leadership team.

Lynsey McVay, currently Assistant Chief Fire Officer at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, has been named Interim Chief Fire Officer.

Stephen Kennedy, the current Assistant Chief Fire Officer for Northumberland Fire and Rescue, has been appointed Interim Deputy Chief Fire Officer.

A service spokesperson said: “Interim appointments have been put in place whilst we continue to work through the appropriate next steps following the neutral assessment findings.”

They added: “They will further support our operational command cover and procedures and we reassure residents that public safety remains our top priority.”

Northumberland fire chiefs suspended following cultural review: Summary

Northumberland County Council has suspended Chief Fire Officer Graeme Binning and Deputy Chief Fire Officer Jim McNeil following an independent review into the culture of Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service.

The review was commissioned in response to staff concerns and has now been received by the council.

The Fire Brigades Union has warned that the suspensions could impact the service’s ability to respond to major incidents.

Interim leadership appointments have been made, with Lynsey McVay stepping in as Interim Chief Fire Officer and Stephen Kennedy as Interim Deputy Chief Fire Officer.

The fire service has stated that public safety remains its top priority while the council considers the next steps.

Leadership change at MSA Safety: CFO transition announced

MSA Safety CFO resignation and interim appointment confirmed

MSA Safety has announced that its Chief Financial Officer, Lee B. McChesney, will step down from his role on 21 March 2025.

McChesney, who has served as CFO since October 2022, is leaving to take up a similar position at another publicly traded company.

MSA Safety President and CEO Steve Blanco confirmed that the company has begun a search for a new CFO.

In the interim, Elyse L. Brody, MSA’s Executive Director of Financial Planning and Analysis and Strategy, has been appointed as acting CFO.

Company acknowledges outgoing CFO’s contributions

Blanco acknowledged McChesney’s work at MSA Safety, particularly his role in implementing the MSA Business System to improve finance operations.

Blanco said: “We extend our thanks to Lee for the contributions he has made since joining the company.

“Lee was a strong advocate for the MSA Business System, which he utilized in his continuous improvement efforts to strengthen the foundation within our Finance organization in pursuit of functional excellence.”

Interim CFO appointment

Brody, who will serve as interim CFO, has been with MSA Safety in a senior financial role.

The company has not disclosed a timeline for appointing a permanent replacement.

Her interim appointment is effective immediately following McChesney’s departure.

Search for new CFO underway

MSA Safety has launched a recruitment process to identify its next CFO.

No details have been provided regarding potential candidates or an estimated timeline for the appointment.

The company has not stated whether it is considering internal or external candidates.

MSA Safety CFO resignation and interim appointment confirmed: Summary

MSA Safety has announced the resignation of CFO Lee B. McChesney, effective 21 March 2025.

McChesney, who has held the position since October 2022, is leaving to join another publicly traded company.

The company has appointed Elyse L. Brody, Executive Director of Financial Planning and Analysis and Strategy, as interim CFO.

President and CEO Steve Blanco confirmed that MSA Safety has initiated a search for McChesney’s successor.

No further details on the recruitment process have been disclosed.