Global HSE Group appoints Dave Bartholomew to lead fire systems

Iain Hoey
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Left: Dave Bartholomew, Right: Ross O’Loughlin
Appointment strengthens UK fire protection delivery
Global HSE Group has announced the appointment of Dave Bartholomew as its new Head of Active Fire Solutions.
According to Global HSE Group, the appointment supports the company’s development of fire protection systems for high-risk and complex buildings across the United Kingdom.
Bartholomew will be responsible for leading the design, specification, installation and commissioning of active fire protection systems.
His remit includes delivering full-service solutions from initial concept to client handover in line with UK regulations, including BS EN 12845, BS 9251 and B9999:2017.
The company said the appointment brings expertise in a wide range of technologies such as CPVC sprinklers, gas systems, water mist systems and fire, smoke and multi-function dampers.
Bartholomew to oversee system design and compliance
In his new role, Bartholomew will take responsibility for strategic development of Global HSE Group’s active fire protection services.
The company stated that he will manage the delivery of systems that comply with British fire safety standards and meet client performance requirements.
The position covers the end-to-end lifecycle of fire systems, including technical design, product selection, regulatory alignment and installation.
According to Global HSE Group, Bartholomew’s technical scope will include system commissioning and structured handover processes.
The business said this approach ensures consistent service quality and legal compliance across projects in complex and high-risk settings.
Experience in international and high-risk fire protection
Before joining Global HSE Group, Bartholomew was Chief Executive Officer and owner of the Chrinica Group.
He held this position from 2003 to 2024, during which time he led the business in delivering fire safety projects across the African continent.
Chrinica Group’s work under Bartholomew’s leadership included supply chain management, system design, installation and ongoing maintenance.
He is certified as a Fire Suppression Commissioner and Fire Detection Commissioner under the SAQCC.
Bartholomew also holds recognised qualifications as a Fire Damper and Smoke Damper Inspector.
Global HSE Group leadership welcomes new appointment
Ross O’Loughlin, Director and Head of Global Technical Services at Global HSE Group, welcomed the new appointment.
O’Loughlin said: “Bringing Dave Bartholomew into our growing team marks a significant milestone for Global. He has over two decades of active fire experience, particularly in developing robust fire solutions for the most challenging environments.
“Dave’s proven ability to manage complex projects end-to-end, coupled with his uncompromising commitment to regulatory compliance and client satisfaction, will directly enhance our offering and deliver even greater value to our clients navigating their building’s fire safety requirements.”
Bartholomew also commented on his new role at the company.
He said: “I am thrilled to join Global HSE Group, a company renowned for its dedication to excellence and its ‘Do It Right’ attitude to fire safety.
“I look forward to collaborating with such a talented team and leveraging my experience to contribute to the company’s continued growth, to enhance the active fire solutions offering and support clients in achieving their fire safety objectives.”
UK projects targeted for fire systems growth
Global HSE Group said the appointment forms part of its strategy to expand specialist fire systems delivery in the United Kingdom.
The company said its fire systems division provides services to a wide range of sectors and environments where enhanced suppression systems are required.
This includes sites with complex building layouts, high-value assets or critical operational dependencies.
By appointing a dedicated leader for this area, the company aims to develop both its technical approach and client service delivery.
The company confirmed that Bartholomew’s appointment is effective immediately.
Global HSE Group appoints Dave Bartholomew to lead fire systems: Summary
Global HSE Group has appointed Dave Bartholomew as Head of Active Fire Solutions.
The company said he will lead fire system design, development, installation and commissioning.
Bartholomew was previously CEO and owner of Chrinica Group.
He has over 20 years of experience in fire protection across Africa and the UK.
His qualifications include SAQCC Fire Suppression and Detection Commissioner status.
He is also certified as a Fire Damper and Smoke Damper Inspector.
Global HSE Group said his role will support UK delivery of high-risk fire safety systems.
Ross O’Loughlin said Bartholomew will strengthen client delivery and regulatory compliance.
Bartholomew said he looks forward to contributing to the company’s growth.
The appointment is effective from July 2025.