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Fire Industry Association heralds “landmark” 2024 AGM and Annual Lunch

11 November 2024

THE FIRE Industry Association (FIA) held its 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Annual Lunch at The Brewery in central London on 7 November, welcoming upwards of 560 fire industry professionals for “a day filled with insights, recognition and invaluable networking opportunities”.

Trade Association members received updates on the FIA’s achievements across the last 12 months, a three-course meal and the bestowing of several inspiring awards designed to recognise the excellent work transacted by dedicated industry professionals.

This year’s sold-out event – which was sponsored by Fire Safety Matters and attended by Mark Sennett (CEO of Western Business Media and the founder of Fire Safety Matters) and Leanne Velez, head of commercial for the fire portfolio at Western Business Media – included post-lunch networking and an entertaining performance by comedian Seann Walsh.

Annual General Meeting

During the AGM, comprehensive updates were presented across the core areas of finance, training, membership, marketing and the FIA Councils, highlighting the projects that have contributed to the Association’s growth and impact.

Members were encouraged to participate, with opportunities to pose questions and engage in discussions on key FIA initiatives and future goals.

For those unable to attend, the FIA will share the AGM presentation via e-mail, which includes the latest results of the Board and Council elections. The FIA team extends its congratulations to everyone elected to serve on the Board and Councils this year. Their contributions will undoubtedly shape the future of the Trade Association and its commitment to advancing fire safety standards.

Annual Lunch and Awards

Following on from the AGM, guests enjoyed a three-course meal. As the meal concluded, FIA chair Martin Watson took to the stage to reflect on the organisation’s enduring contributions to fire safety.

FIA CEO Ian Moore then presented two prestigious awards, duly recognising outstanding individuals within the industry.

The first award, for the ‘Young Technician of the Year’, was presented to Rio Brown of SA Fire and Security Systems Ltd. This accolade underscores the FIA’s commitment to supporting emerging talent in the fire industry.

Next, the highly esteemed ‘FIA Lifetime Achievement Award’ was presented to Nick Coombe of the London Fire Brigade and the National Fire Chiefs Council, honouring his significant contributions and dedication to fire safety throughout his career. The FIA team congratulates both Rio and Nick for their exceptional achievements and commitment to the industry.

Post-lunch networking

As mentioned, the renowned comedian Seann Walsh provided this year’s after-dinner entertainment, duly captivating the audience with his humour and charm. His performance added an extra sparkle to the day, bringing plenty of laughter to the room.

Following the lunch, the FIA hosted post-lunch networking, which created additional opportunities for guests to catch up, deepen their connections and continue valuable discussions in a relaxed atmosphere.

The FIA would like to thank this year’s headline sponsor, The Fire Safety Event, and the Comedian Sponsor, namely Eurotech Fire Systems, along with all of the 2024 event sponsors: Ajax Systems, Apollo Fire Detectors, the Fairfield Trading Co Ltd, FirePro UK and Ireland, Fire Safety Matters, Hispec Electrical Products, Kentec Electronics and Safety Technology International.

*The date for the FIA AGM and Annual Lunch 2025 is 6 November

 
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