UK Material Handling Association Appoints New CEO

The UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA) announces Rob Fisher (pictured) as its Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1st, 2024.

Rob Fisher will succeed Tim Waples, Chief Executive UKMHA, whose retirement was announced earlier in the year, and Cameron Burnett, CEO Designate.

Under Waples’ stewardship, which dates back to 2020 when BITA and FLTA combined, UKMHA has flourished. “Tim has provided UKMHA with excellent leadership at what was a very challenging period with the combination of two major associations and not forgetting the unique circumstances that we all had to deal with during COVID,” states Simon Barkworth, UKMHA Joint President. “We wish Tim a well-earned and happy retirement.”

Burnett, who joined in 2022, has been instrumental in advancing UKMHA’s marketing and events strategy and departs with the association’s heartfelt well wishes.

Fisher steps into his new role with a mandate to drive member engagement, ensure seamless day-to-day operations, and collaborate with the board of directors to shape the association’s future trajectory.

With over 19 years leading IMHX, a pivotal event jointly owned by UKMHA and Informa Markets, Fisher brings a wealth of industry insight and expertise. His proven track record in business management ensures UKMHA’s continued dedication to serving its members and advancing sustainability, safety, and excellence in the material handling sector.

Joint UKMHA President, Andrew Woodward, expresses enthusiasm for the appointment, highlighting his strategic acumen and industry knowledge as invaluable assets. “We are thrilled to welcome Rob to the UKMHA family,” says Woodward. “His leadership will be crucial as we champion our dynamic industry and empower our members to thrive in an evolving landscape.”

“I am honoured and excited by this unique opportunity,” says Fisher. “I look forward to engaging with UKMHA members along with our Safe User Group at the earliest opportunity. With an exceptional team by my side, I am confident in our ability to drive positive change and continue to elevate the profile of our industry.”

Woodward continues “I want to extend my sincere appreciation to Tim for ensuring a seamless transition during the merger of FLTA and BITA. His efforts, alongside Cameron’s, have been instrumental in the smooth operation of our association over the past 18 months.”

The Archies awards for honouring excellence in material handling, which will be held on September 14th, will be Fisher’s first UKMHA event. “The Archies is a prestigious event that recognises excellence and outstanding achievements. I’m looking forward to welcoming our finalists, sponsors, and guests to what will be a true celebration of those operating at the highest echelons in our industry,” finishes Fisher.

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UKMHA seeks jurors for Archies 2022

 

FLTA Awards for Excellence winners announced

The much-anticipated FLTA Awards for Excellence was streamed live on Saturday 10th April to reveal who would finally be crowned winners.

Having been twice postponed due to the pandemic, the event was taken online – a first for the FLTA in its history of holding the Awards.

Audiences tuned in for an evening of cocktails and celebrations, hosted by compere Rebecca Mordan. Throughout the evening, familiar faces from across the industry made an appearance to announce the winners in 10 categories.

The first winner of the night was B&B Attachments, who won Supplier of the Year, sponsored by Yale. This award speaks volumes about B&B Attachments as it is voted for by FLTA members themselves.

The remaining award winners were selected by a jury of industry experts, with Dealer of the Year, sponsored by Combilift, going to Truckmasters Handling.

With safety being a cornerstone of the FLTA, the Safe Site Award is always an inspirational one. This award, sponsored by Carrylift, went to Devenish Nutrition for its proactive approach and commitment to improving safety across multiple sites.

The most hotly contested awards of the night are always the sought-after Pick of the Year product accolades.

The Environment Award was sponsored by TVH, and went to JCB for its 30-19E — the world’s first electric telescopic forklift. This new product has zero emissions and minimal sound pollution, making it ideal for urban environments.

Earning its 10th award to date, Combilift received the Innovation Award, sponsored by IBCS. Its Electric Front and Rear Wheel Drive Combination impressed the panel with its clever design and how it handles long loads in the tightest spaces while minimising tyre wear.

When it comes to keeping operators comfortable, Linde proved top, with its N20C Steering Wheel winning the Ergonomics Award, sponsored by Triathlon Battery Solutions. The ergonomics of the steering wheel were truly designed with the operator in mind, removing a great deal of stress and strain throughout long shifts.

The Safety Award, sponsored by F-TEC, went to Hyster for its hinged elevating operator cabin for the Hyster® RS46 ReachStacker. The jury noted the excellent visibility afforded by the cabin, eliminating the need for cameras or spotters, who would potentially be at risk.

Sponsored by Doosan, the Apprentice of the Year Award honours the hard work and dedication put in by the industry’s newest recruits. Kieran Hale was named winner, and received a cheque and certificate.

The Services to the Industry Award, sponsored by Flexi, was won by Richard Hayes, in recognition of his work at Brindley Lift Truck Services as well as his invaluable contributions to the FLTA and CFTS over the years.

The final honour of the night was the Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Toyota Material Handling. Given his extraordinary career at Hitec and unwavering commitment to customers and staff alike, Lifetime Achievement was awarded to Prospero Girardi, who now finds himself in exclusive company as only a handful of people have ever received this award.

FLTA Director Tim Waples said: “The FLTA Awards for Excellence highlights the remarkable accomplishments of the sector and this year was no exception. We would like to offer a big congratulations to our well-deserving winners.

“It is also important to recognise the efforts of the other nominees in each category. All of the entries we received represent a clear commitment to delivering unrivalled services and ingenious products designed to make a real difference to the industry.”

As well as coming together to celebrate the sector’s best and brightest, ticket holders were also entered into a Grand Prize Draw, sponsored by Hubtex. Premium prizes were awarded to winners throughout the night, adding a few extra surprises for a lucky few.

“It was a fantastic night and even though the music and dancing couldn’t happen in person, we hope the audience had fun continuing the after-party at home,” added Tim Waples.

“We would like to sincerely thank all our sponsors: Combilift, Carrylift, Yale, Toyota Material Handling, F-TEC, IBCS, TVH, Triathlon Battery Solutions, Flexi, Doosan and Hubtex; our supporters: Transmon Engineering, JCB and DLL; and our media partner Handling and Storage Solutions.

“I look forward to the time when we can once again gather together to celebrate the achievements and innovations within our industry.”

The 26th FLTA Awards for Excellence is available to watch on YouTube here.

 

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