ASFP unveils new council for 2024 at Annual General Meeting in London

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) announced the appointment of its new council during the 2024 Annual General Meeting held at Drapers’ Hall, London on 11 April.

The council, comprising 12 members, was selected after a robust election process that saw 21 candidates nominated in February and March.

The chair and vice chair have retained their positions, with the other ten seats filled for a two-year term.

This restructuring includes a diverse group from various sectors such as contractors, manufacturers, distributors, associates, and notably, a representative from ASFP Ireland.

A significant addition this year is the inclusion of a principal contractor member, highlighting ASFP’s expanding involvement with this vital sector in the construction industry.

The new council members are Clive Miles as Chair, Sharon McClure as Vice Chair, and representatives including Moe Elmasry, Alan Curran, Carrie Blackshaw, Liam Keenan, Carl Burrell, Jamie O’Hagan, Matthew Jones, Ian Outram, Will Pitt, and John O’Callaghan.

Highlights from the AGM and future plans

The 2024 AGM provided a platform for ASFP members to engage with the newly elected council and receive comprehensive updates on the association’s activities over the past year.

Sharon McClure, the Vice Chair, presented the ASFP’s future vision.

Mike Ward, the Managing Director, discussed significant milestones such as the acquisition and launch of a new office and training academy in Coventry.

He highlighted the expansion of the ASFP Competency Pathway, the introduction of new training courses, and the formation of new membership groups and industry collaborations.

Membership Officer Tony Corcoran noted the association’s growth with over 57 new members joining since June 2023, emphasizing the broad interest across the entire supply chain.

Dr Andrew Taylor, ASFP Head of Technical, provided updates on the latest legislative changes and the association’s contributions to industry standards and guidance.

The formal event concluded with a keynote address by Chandru Dissanayeke from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, discussing government and regulatory updates.

IFSJ Comment

The new council’s introduction marks a continuation of ASFP’s dedication to leadership and advocacy in fire protection and safety standards.

This diverse group of professionals brings a wealth of expertise and experience, ensuring the association remains at the forefront of industry developments and continues to influence key legislative and technical standards.

The commitment to expanding the ASFP Competency Pathway and enhancing member engagement through new training initiatives reflects a proactive approach to addressing the challenges within the fire protection sector.

This strategy fosters collaboration across the built environment, enhancing overall industry resilience and safety standards.