2024 FIA AGM and annual lunch in London gathers fire industry professionals

The FIA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Annual Lunch in 2024 gathered over 560 fire industry professionals, according to a recent FIA blog post.

The event, which was sold out, featured updates on the FIA’s activities, industry awards, and post-lunch networking.

Attendees, including both longstanding and new members, received insights on key developments in the field and enjoyed a three-course lunch.

Comedian Seann Walsh provided entertainment after the meal, adding a lively element to the event, held as a highlight in the FIA calendar.

Martin Watson, FIA Chairman, spoke at the event, reflecting on the association’s efforts in advancing fire safety standards.

The AGM also featured presentations covering the year’s progress in areas like Finance, Training, Membership, and Marketing, along with updates on various FIA councils.

Members could pose questions and discuss future FIA goals.

The FIA announced plans to share the AGM presentation, including election results, by email for those unable to attend in person.

Recognising industry talent through awards

Following the AGM, FIA CEO Ian Moore presented two awards to celebrate excellence within the fire industry.

The ‘Young Technician of the Year’ award went to Rio Brown of SA Fire and Security Systems Ltd.

Moore noted the importance of fostering emerging talent, highlighting the role of young professionals in the industry’s future.

Additionally, the ‘FIA Lifetime Achievement Award’ was awarded to Nick Coombe of London Fire Brigade and the National Fire Chiefs Council, acknowledging his longstanding commitment and contributions to fire safety in the UK.

Both awardees were celebrated for their dedication to the industry, with Moore and the FIA Team commending their achievements.

These recognitions reflect the FIA’s commitment to promoting both new and veteran professionals in the field.

Networking and post-lunch entertainment

The day’s activities included an engaging performance by comedian Seann Walsh, providing humour to an appreciative audience.

His act offered a lighter interlude, allowing attendees to enjoy a moment of levity amidst the day’s formal proceedings.

Post-lunch networking created an informal setting where attendees could deepen professional connections and share ideas.

The relaxed environment facilitated discussions on industry challenges, innovations, and shared objectives, further solidifying the value of the event as a networking platform for fire safety professionals.

Event sponsorship and plans for 2025

The FIA expressed appreciation for the event’s headline sponsor, The Fire Safety Event, and comedian sponsor Eurotech Fire Systems Ltd., along with AJAX Systems UK Ltd, Apollo Fire Detectors, and others whose support made the event possible.

Acknowledging the contributions of all sponsors, the FIA highlighted the collaborative efforts that contributed to the success of the 2024 event.

Plans are already underway for the 2025 AGM and Annual Lunch, scheduled for 6 November 2025.

The FIA encourages interested companies to explore sponsorship opportunities, which can provide prominent brand exposure at one of the fire industry’s key gatherings.

Businesses interested in sponsoring can reach out to the FIA for more information.

2024 FIA AGM and annual lunch in London gathers fire industry professionals: Summary

The 2024 FIA AGM and Annual Lunch brought together over 560 fire industry professionals for a day of updates, awards, and networking, according to the FIA.

The event included a three-course meal, with highlights such as a post-lunch performance by comedian Seann Walsh.

FIA Chairman Martin Watson reviewed the association’s progress, and FIA CEO Ian Moore presented two awards recognising significant contributions within the industry.

The AGM covered areas like Finance, Training, and Membership, with presentations on FIA’s goals and future initiatives.

The event was made possible with the support of sponsors, including The Fire Safety Event and Eurotech Fire Systems Ltd.

The FIA invites companies to consider sponsorship opportunities for the 2025 event, scheduled for 6 November.