FIA Technical Manager Graham Simons has retired from his post on Friday after a long career in the fire industry and over 6 years of service with us.

His retirement was marked by celebrations in the office, and a special farewell lunch at a local hotel on the riverside near Hampton Court Palace.

Graham joined the Technical Team in February 2011. With a specialism in FD&A, he acted as Secretary to the FD&A Council and represented the FIA on the Euralarm Section Fire. He also represented FIA on various technical standardisation committees including, BSI, CEN and ISO.

As a trainer, Graham supported FIA professional training on BS 5839-1. Prior to joining us he worked for 12 years at Honeywell Life Safety as Regulatory Manager.  His technical knowledge as such was invaluable to the Association.

Graham’s position as Technical Manager and Secretary to the FD&A Council will be taken up by new-starter Robert Yates.

Robert has over 30 years experience in the industry and has worked in a variety of roles including product specification, design, manufacture, distribution, service, sales, and marketing. Prior to joining the FIA he worked for 13 years in Switzerland, working in Product Management with Siemens Building Technologies.

We all wish Graham all the very best for his retirement and good luck to Robert starting in his new role.