David Cooper MBE Named CIBSE President Elect 2025/26
The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers has named David Cooper MBE as President Elect. David has 40 years of experience in the lift and escalator...
Read Full ArticleThis month includes new appointments at phs Compliance, Okra, Bellrock and more.
Picture: a graphic showing the headshots of Danny Power, Jamie Firman and Riccardo Zara
One of the UK’s leading providers of workplace compliance and FM project services has announced a new Operations Director as the business diversifies into new services to further support FMs.
Danny Power started with phs Compliance in 2012 when he was appointed as a fixed wire test engineer. He left the business 2023 as Head of Electrical, before returning as Operations Director in 2024.
He has nearly 20 years of experience in electrical work and FM projects, and he is now leading an operations team of 400 people at phs Compliance, including 350 nationwide field engineers specialising in air conditioning, fire and electrical testing and safety for businesses.
Danny will be focussing on strategic growth across the electrical and compliance side of the business, as well as increased project-based work. This includes greener energy projects like LED lighting and PV. Each of these now has its own specific and specialised project team within phs Compliance.
“We have worked with FMs for decades, supporting them with electrical testing and other compliance needs. We carry out more than 14 million compliance inspections every year at around 35,000 customer sites and we have become a trusted partner for so many businesses. This has naturally led our business to diversify into FM project services to allow us to support more of their needs, including their ESG goals.
“We are working with all kinds of businesses, from big brand names to SMEs right across the UK, to deliver electrical testing, EV installations, LED lighting projects and PV projects to help them meet their sustainability and health and safety goals. Retail, hospitality, education and blue light services continue to be a focus for us.
“phs Compliance has come a long way in a short space of time by embracing technology and listening to our customers’ needs. With controlled reporting in place, we are focussed on utilising the data and measurements available to us, and embracing the latest technology and software, to deliver the best service and value to our customers.
“We are in a unique position in the market. We are a national business that can offer regional delivery and the shared facilities and strength of a powerhouse group like the phs Group. I will be drawing on this and our incredibly talented and experienced team as we work to further enhance our core services and develop more new services for customers.”
Oktra, the leading office design studio shaping the workspaces of some of the world's top companies, today announces the appointment of Jamie Firman as its Head of Sustainability and Environmental. The appointment follows a record-breaking quarter in 2024 and aligns with the B Corp company’s 30th anniversary in the industry.
With over 17 years of experience in the construction industry – most recently as Sustainability Manager at fit-out firm, Structure Tone – Firman will lead Oktra’s efforts to advance innovative sustainable solutions through all aspects of the business. He has held a variety of key roles in construction and project management at global organisations such as Mace and ISG, delivering high quality commercial office space across London. In his sustainability-focused positions, he has led initiatives to reduce environmental and boost social impact whilst promoting responsible building practices.
In his new role, Firman will work alongside a team of sustainability experts across Oktra’s multiple divisions to integrate innovative sustainable solutions in design and construction, further minimising environmental impact and maximising resource conservation across office design projects. His leadership will ensure that sustainability remains at the core of the company’s approach to workspace design and build.
Oktra’s Chief Development Officer, Craig Smith, said: “We are thrilled to welcome a world-class sustainability leader in the industry like Jamie as Head of Sustainability. His experience with innovative sustainability solutions in both construction and project management brings a unique perspective that will be invaluable as we continue to lead in creating world-class, environmentally responsible workspaces. As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, Jamie’s appointment reinforces our commitment to sustainable growth.”
Chapmanbdsp, an independent design consultancy, specialising in building services engineering and environmental design is pleased to announce Riccardo Zara as Director of Sustainability and Building Physics, effective immediately. This appointment underpins the firm’s strong commitment to environmental responsibility.
Riccardo Zara brings with him over 15 years of experience in environmental management and sustainable engineering practices. Having begun his studies in Italy as a structural engineer and then completed his master’s degree in Sweden as an environmental and sustainability consultant, his early career was focused on building services design, building physics, and decarbonization strategies.
He has since gained valuable experience in building services particularly in mechanical engineering as well as developing skills in strategic team management and business development in recent years. Passionate about creating an inclusive working environment, as well as focused on technical excellence, Riccardo has experience of working with world leading architects on cutting-edge building projects in sectors ranging from arts and culture to life sciences, commercial, residential, and industrial.
Ray Upjohn, chapmanbdsp Chief Executive says, "We are delighted to welcome Riccardo Zara to our leadership team. His appointment comes at a crucial time within our change management programme as we continue gearing for growth. Riccardo brings exceptional experience and vision that will help us deliver on our ambitious sustainability objectives while creating additional value for our clients. The Board and I look forward to working with him.”
Commenting on his appointment, Riccardo Zara adds, "The engineering sector has a pivotal role to play in decarbonisation and creating resilient infrastructure. I’m excited to join chapmanbdsp because of its strong technical foundation. That kind of deep knowledge is crucial to fully understanding and tackling the complexity of sustainability in the building environment.”
This appointment represents another step in chapmanbdsp’s journey towards becoming the industry leader in sustainable engineering solutions, supporting clients in meeting their own environmental objectives whilst creating lasting positive impact for communities and the planet.
Mark brings over 15 years of experience in driving transformation and innovation within the property services and real estate sectors, having held significant strategic and operational roles with leading industry organisations such as Mitie and Capita. Notably, Mark most recently led the creation and implementation of the award-winning Mercury property management model at Legal & General. As a key partner in this initiative, Bellrock worked closely with Mark, giving him an in-depth understanding of the Group’s business structure and operations. Most recently, the Symphony Model, which leverages training and smart building technology to optimise building performance, won the CIBSE 2025 Collaboration Award. In November 2024, Bellrock, along with a broader network of supply chain partners, was honoured with the PfM Wellbeing Award for supporting L&G’s Hidden Workers programme, aimed at improving health outcomes for frontline workers in property.
On his appointment, Mark said: “It’s an exciting time to be joining Bellrock and I’m delighted to be part of such a dynamic and innovative business. Having collaborated with Bellrock during my five years at Legal & General, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand the talented people and cutting-edge technology that drive the business. Through our partnership, we’ve demonstrated that by working closely with our supply chain partners, leveraging technology and fostering a performance-driven culture, the Integrator model delivers significant value for customers. I’m looking forward to connecting with the Intelligent Asset Care team and sharing my vision and ambition for our future success.”
Carlo Alloni, CEO Bellrock commented: “Mark’s leadership, expertise and vision will be crucial as we continue to drive the transformational agenda for Bellrock and Intelligent Asset Care. I’m looking forward to the positive impact he will bring as we continue to evolve as a business, and I’m very excited he’s joining my Executive Leadership Team.”
Mark’s appointment is an exciting new chapter for Bellrock, as it continues its commitment to providing top-quality service to its clients while expanding its expertise in the industry. The company is eager to see the positive impact Mark will have as it evolves and strengthens its partnerships.
SafeSite Facilities has promoted Kerry Glyde to Stock Manager and has appointed Jack Lowdell as Sales Manager to support its growth strategy.
Kerry, who has worked at SafeSite Facilities for ten years, was promoted from the role of purchase ledger after working across numerous departments within the company.
Jack brings a wealth of sales experience to support the business, which is considered a leader in construction, event site safety and security.
SafeSite Facilities has also recently appointed Rob Blakeman, who will join the company soon as business development manager.
Paul Goossens, Operations Director at SafeSite Facilities said: “We’re so pleased to promote Kerry, whose many years of experience have enabled her to know the business inside out. The appointment of Jack and Rob are exciting strategic new hires, supporting plans to expand our operations, build on client relationships and enhance our reputation for excellent customer service. I’m convinced they will all play a major role in delivering an exciting future for the business.”
Kerry’s role will involve keeping a close eye on current inventory, managing replenishment, and making sure older stock is rotated or moved to avoid space issues, as well as ensuring the sales team can secure orders and deliver within tight time frames.
Kerry said: “This new role is an exciting challenge that I’m genuinely looking forward to.
“This position looks set to be fast paced, requiring constant adaptation and attention to detail as we ensure optimal stock levels for sales and hires. I can’t wait to put my experience into practice.”
As Sales Manager, Jack will lead and support the sales team to drive revenue growth. He will also expand the business’ market presence, coach the team and ensure together they exceed their goals, while maintaining exceptional customer service.
He joins the business with 15 years of hands-on sales experience and a passion for individual and team development.
Jack said: “I was looking for the opportunity to join a company going through a period of growth. The chance to join a well-established team and be part of and contribute to that journey was a big driver in my decision.”
Rob will soon join the newly formed external sales team as Business Development Manager, bringing a proven track record of delivering results through a strategic, customer-focused approach.
With extensive experience across both the construction and non-mechanical sectors, he is ideally positioned to drive growth and build strong client relationships.
Leading infrastructure and engineering business Amey has appointed Colin Wood MBE as a member of the Group Executive Committee and Managing Director of its Consulting business.
Colin will be responsible for strategy, growth and operational delivery of Amey’s Consulting business which operates in the UK, Ireland and the USA. As one of the UK’s leading engineering consultancies, it offers services including strategic programme management, digital transformation, advisory, data science and analytics, sustainable infrastructure design and engineering, decarbonisation and energy transition. It is part of the Amey Group which employs 12,000 people in the infrastructure, engineering and built environment sectors.
Colin replaces Alex Gilbert who will take up a new role supporting growth across the Group, particularly in new geographies.
Andy Milner, Chief Executive Officer at Amey, said: “Colin’s appointment is an important step for our Consulting business. He has extensive experience across the sectors in which we operate and beyond. His reputation is exemplary, and his expertise will be invaluable as we continue to expand the Consulting business and the Group. Colin will play a key role in ensuring our customers receive the highest quality, end-to-end whole life asset services with a strong focus on decarbonisation in the UK and overseas.”
Colin joins Amey from Aecom where he was Chief Executive of Europe and India. Prior to that he served as Chief Capability Officer for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and Chief Executive of Civil Infrastructure for EMEA.
Before joining Aecom, Colin held a range of senior positions including Managing Director at Air Tanker, Chief Executive Officer for the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), Head of Olympic and Paralympic Games Readiness for Transport for London (TfL), and Logistics and Change Director at Heathrow Airport. He also served for 19 years in the Royal Air Force as an air traffic controller and aviation specialist.
Picture: a photograph of wooden tiles spelling out the words "New Job". Image Credit: Pexels
Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 28 May 2025
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