It’s been a busy few months in the electrical industry, with new appointments and shake-ups across different sectors. Keep up to date with the latest movements here, as we details who has gone where…

Chris Pereira

FOCUS SB

Chris Pereira has been appointed as Business Development Manager at Focus SB. A familiar face in the bespoke electrical accessories industry, Chris Pereira will be covering the Midlands and Home Counties in his new role. Chris Pereira’s career journey began with three years of study in electrical and electrotechnical engineering at college. He then worked as a teacher for students with special needs while continuing to search for an opportunity within the electrical industry. For eight years, Chris worked as an electrician for a small, private firm that offered a diverse range of projects. This experience allowed him to build valuable electrical and customer support skills, which contributed to both his professional growth and drive for new challenges.

Gordon Ross

VCHRGD

UK EV charging technology manufacturer VCHRGD has announced the appointment of Gordon Ross as the company’s first Marketing Director, marking a significant step in its continued growth across the UK EV charging ecosystem.

Gordon will work with the VCHRGD leadership team to strengthen the company’s brand presence and support expansion across key market segments including installer and wholesale partnerships, energy supplier integrations, fleet electrification and EV salary sacrifice schemes.

Gordon has already been working closely with the VCHRGD team on several recent marketing initiatives, including supporting the launch of the company’s energy supplier integration with Octopus, helping develop the Partner Spotlight programme highlighting installer and technology collaborations, and building the business’s marketing roadmap for the year ahead.

Clair Mowbray

CERTSURE

Certsure, the organisation behind NICEIC, has announced the appointment of Clair Mowbray as Chief Executive Officer, effective 30 March 2026.

A proven CEO, Clair joins Certsure having led nationally significant, safety-critical organisations including The Fire Service College and the National College for High Speed Rail. She brings extensive experience in delivering technical excellence, operating within complex sectors, and working closely with industry and government to strengthen the development of skills and talent pipelines.

As CEO, Clair will be responsible for Certsure’s future strategic direction and will lead the organisation’s vital work to safeguard public safety, raise standards, and uphold the highest levels of technical competence. She will focus on strengthening Certsure’s industry-leading position to deliver even greater value for its customers, and will work collaboratively with stakeholders and government to ensure NICEIC-certified businesses – and the wider sector – are well positioned to meet the needs of today and the evolving demands of tomorrow.

Andy Munson

EXI-TITE

As part of an ongoing commitment to strengthening its team and supporting continued business growth, HVAC supplier Exi-tite has appointed Andy Munson as Regional Sales Manager – London, and Trevor Girvan as Technical Engineer.

Andy Munson joins the business with 46 years of experience in the HVAC industry. During his career, he has worked with organisations including Space Air (Daikin distributor), Toshiba Air Conditioning and CIAT. His background includes heat pumps, air conditioning, heating units and dehumidification systems.

Georgia Burke & Dave Velan

DRAYTON

Drayton has further bolstered its regional sales team with the appointments of Georgia Burke as Area Sales Manager for the Central Region and Dave Velan as Area Sales Manager for the North East.

In his role, Dave covers the east side of Northern England, including Hull and East Yorkshire, through to the North East corner of Scotland. Dave brings extensive industry experience, including several roles that span a total of 23 years with City Plumbing, where he was most recently a Senior Account Manager within the regional team. Dave also spent seven years focusing on social housing within the national team before returning to a regional position covering the North East and Cumbria.

In her new position, Georgia is responsible for specification across social housing, new build developments and large contractors. Her focus is on developing strong customer relationships, identifying new opportunities, and supporting specification processes to help drive growth throughout the Central Region of the country.

Georgia joins Drayton with over a decade of experience within the industry behind her. She previously spent six years at Grundfos, where she developed strong commercial and technical expertise.

Catch up on previous months ‘Movers and shakers’ articles here

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Drayton has revealed new analysis of Marginal Abatement Cost Curve (MACC) data, confirming that upgrading heating controls is one of the most cost-effective ways for households to cut carbon emissions and reduce energy bills.

MACC analysis assesses which energy-saving measures deliver the greatest carbon savings for the lowest installation cost. Drayton’s latest review compared heating controls – including thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), auto-balancing TRVs and programmable thermostats – with measures such as loft and solid wall insulation.

The findings show standard TRVs deliver a marginal abatement cost of -£295 per tonne of CO₂e, while a Digistat programmable thermostat achieves -£275 and auto-balancing TRVs -£272. By comparison, solid wall insulation delivers -£46 per tonne and loft insulation -£81. A negative MACC value indicates the measure saves more money over its lifetime than it costs to install, making it a positive investment from day one.

Nick Hunt, UK Sales and Marketing Director at Drayton, said: “With ongoing cost-of-living pressures and growing demand for low-carbon solutions, the MACC findings highlight clear advantages for installers and homeowners.

“Compared with insulation, upgrading heating controls is quick and low disruption. Installers can deliver immediate bill savings and improved comfort, with strong upsell potential, particularly with auto-balancing TRVs.”

Drayton says the results demonstrate that traditional heating controls provide an accessible, lower-cost route to reducing carbon emissions while supporting wider Net Zero ambitions.

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Scolmore Group has announced that, following a formal review of its recent EcoVadis sustainability assessment, the company’s score has been successfully revised in line with the scoring principles and supporting evidence provided. This has resulted in an improved score within the Environmental theme and the prestigious award of an EcoVadis Gold medal, recognising Scolmore Group’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Scolmore Group’s overall sustainability score has increased significantly – from 66/100 in 2024, to 79/100 for 2025  –  surpassing the threshold for Gold recognition under EcoVadis’ rating methodology. This achievement now places the organisation among the top 5% of over 150,000 companies globally assessed by EcoVadis.

EcoVadis evaluates companies across four core themes: Environment, Labour & Human Rights, Ethics and Sustainable Procurement. Recognised across more than 250 industries and 200 countries, EcoVadis assessments help organisations measure and improve their sustainability practices throughout their value chains. The EcoVadis rating has become a trusted benchmark for corporate responsibility, used by thousands of companies worldwide to demonstrate their commitment to sustainable business.

Responsible for driving the EcoVadis sustainability initiative at Scolmore Group is Manuela Rubino Courtney, Group Legal and Compliance Manager. Commenting on the achievement, she said: “Achieving the EcoVadis Gold Medal is a major milestone for Scolmore Group and a clear recognition of the progress we have made across our environmental, social and ethical practices. This award reflects the sustained commitment, collaboration and hard work of our teams throughout the Group, all focused on embedding responsible business practices while continuing to deliver high-quality products and services.”

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Thorne & Derrick International, a global supplier of specialist electrical, mechanical, and safety products to the energy, utilities, and industrial sectors, marked its 40th anniversary in spectacular fashion with an elegant celebration at the historic Beamish Hall in County Durham.

The milestone event, held on 3rd October brought together the team to honour four decades of innovation, resilience, and customer-focused service. The evening’s highlight was the presence of Brian Derrick, one of the company’s founders, who was welcomed as the Guest of Honour.

Founded in 1985 by Brian Derrick and Victor Thorne, Thorne & Derrick International began as a small regional enterprise and has since grown into a trusted international brand, renowned for its technical expertise, product quality, and commitment to safety.

“It’s incredibly humbling to see how far we’ve come,” said Brian Derrick. “From a single office with a handful of passionate people to a globally respected business, this is a testament to the dedication, integrity, and hard work of everyone who has been part of Thorne & Derrick over the past 40 years.”

Managing Director Richard Derrick added, “Brian’s pioneering spirit and unwavering standards laid the foundation for everything we do today. As we celebrate this significant milestone, we also look ahead with confidence, driven by our core values and a commitment to continued innovation and excellence.”

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Vent-Axia has expanded its Dudley Manufacturing centre, located on the Blackbrook Valley Industrial Estate, Narrowboat Way.

The expansion increases capacity to support the anticipated uptick in demand for low-carbon ventilation. This significant investment provides Vent-Axia with a dedicated factory for its commercial and industrial ventilation range, alongside new equipment, additional warehouse space, and new members of staff, adding to its production team. These improvements will enhance production times and allow customers to benefit from shorter lead times.

As part of the expansion, Vent-Axia has increased production line capacity for its commercial and industrial ventilation products to meet increased demand for commercial products. A new production flow line now provides a streamlined production sequence moving products step-by-step through each stage of manufacture, boosting efficiency and increasing output at the Dudley site. Meanwhile, the additional warehouse space allows for greater stockholding of both finished units and parts.

“We are delighted to announce the expansion of our Dudley manufacturing facilities. The Future Homes Standard is to be published in the Autumn, and alongside this, we expect to see an uplift in Part L and Part F of the Building Regulations. This will drive demand for low-carbon ventilation. At Vent-Axia, our new Dudley facilities will ensure we are prepared and that customers will benefit from our increased capacity and the ability to order on demand direct from stock for fast delivery,” said Jason Pendlebury, Vent-Axia Sales Director – Commercial & Industrial.

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It’s been a busy few months in the electrical industry, with new appointments and shake-ups across different sectors. Keep up to date with the latest movements here, as we details who has gone where…

Helen Longdon & Ash Chem

DOEPKE UK

Doepke UK has welcomed two new team members to further support wholesalers, electricians, and contractors nationwide.

Helen Longdon, Marketing Executive, will boost brand visibility and keep the trade informed through clear, timely communications. Ash Chem, Workshop Operative, will assemble switchgear and manage order processing to keep deliveries fast and reliable.

These appointments come alongside the expansion of Doepke’s Daventry premises, increasing stock capacity and streamlining logistics for next-day delivery across the UK. This investment in people and infrastructure strengthens Doepke’s position as circuit protection specialists – delivering quality products, technical expertise, and hands-on support for the electrical trade.

Kristen Brown, Layton Hill, Kas Mohammed, David Pownall & David Williams

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC

Schneider Electric has announced a series of new appointments to its executive leadership team across the UK and Ireland (UK&I).

Kristen Brown, previously VP Strategy UK&I, will be appointed VP Customer Operations UK&I. Kristen will assume the full scope, previously held by Rhonda Doyle, of the Customer Care Centre, Customer Satisfaction and Quality, Project Management Office, Business Systems and Compliance.

Layton Hill, who has been serving as interim VP Strategy UK&I, will formally assume the role. Layton joined Schneider Electric in 2023 and has played a pivotal role in the Transactional Business team, helping to drive continuous improvement, product commercialisation, and go-to-market strategy.

Kas Mohammed, previously VP Digital Energy UK&I, will assume the role of VP Services UK&I. With an impressive 18-year tenure in Digital Energy, Kas brings a wealth of experience and is well-equipped to share his extensive knowledge and best practice in his new position.

David Pownall assumes the role of VP Power Systems & Safety UK&I. David joined Schneider Electric over six years ago as VP Services & Safety UK&I. During that time, he has successfully driven the growth of the Services business, implemented a new service model, and enhanced employee engagement.

David Williams will expand his remit to include the Major Pursuits team as the VP Transactional Business & Major Pursuits UK&I. David will continue to focus on key customers and segments, ensuring the ongoing development of a robust pipeline for large-scale projects across the territory.

Catch up on previous months ‘Movers and shakers’ articles here

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Hispec Electrical Products has become the 100^th manufacturer to sign up to the EDATA data pool to share product information with wholesalers.

Since the Electrical Distributors’ Association (EDA) launched the data pool in 2020 it has grown rapidly, attracting many of the leading brands in the UK’s electrotechnical sector. Now with over 297,000 products listed inside, manufacturers are seeing the commercial advantage in giving their wholesaler customers access high-quality product information and imagery in a central time-saving hub.

Chris Loughlin, Managing Director at Hispec, providers of Life Safety and Housing Solutions, commented: “Wholesalers are important sales partners and it’s clear the EDATA data pool is becoming the go-to resource for high-quality technically rich product information which they need in order to sell. Whether wholesalers are looking for product data sheets for tenders and sharing at the trade counter with a quote, or downloading bulk data for e-commerce or click and collect services, we want Hispec products to be front and centre of that process.”

Margaret Fitzsimons, CEO at the EDA, said “This is a significant milestone for EDATA and a tremendous endorsement of the Association’s work to support our wholesaler members in their digitalisation journeys.

“Rich product information with depth technical spec is a powerful resource that inspires trust and ensures fewer product returns as contractors understand exactly what they are buying. Like all manufacturers in the data pool, Hispec will have the support of our expert team led by my colleague Richard Appleton, our Head of Digitalisation, to realise its potential. Not only will Hispec’s product information appear in the EDATA portal, they will also benefit from extra brand visibility through our multiple integration projects with providers of software and systems to the wholesale channel. Our aim is to attract at least another 20 leading brands by the end of 2025, with more growth targets beyond that, so there is still plenty to do.”

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Thorn and Zumtobel UK & Ireland, lighting brands of the Zumtobel Group, presented a cheque for over £42,000 to Cancer Research UK at their annual sales conference on 23rd May 2025. Football legend Kevin Keegan, special guest at the conference, joined Managing Director Paul Kilburn in presenting the cheque — underscoring the teams’ dedication to supporting pioneering cancer research and the patients and families it benefits.

Over the last financial year, employees organised a range of initiatives, including “duvet days”, festive cake sales, and a Christmas jumper day in exchange for donations. In the spring, around 30 Thorn and Zumtobel employees (joined by friends and family) participated in the London Race for Life. A company contribution further boosted the total funds raised to £42,828.40.

Paul Kilburn, Managing Director, Thorn and Zumtobel Lighting UK & Ireland commented:

“We’re incredibly proud of our teams for their enthusiasm and commitment. Every duvet day taken and every mile run in London has directly contributed to this significant donation. Presenting the cheque at our conference is a highlight, and we’re excited to see the impact these funds will have on vital research.“

“We’re immensely grateful to Thorn and Zumtobel for their incredible support. Donations like these help us push forward with life-saving research and bring us closer to our vision that people can live longer, better lives, free from the fear of cancer,” added Jan Leafe, Relationship Manager, Cancer Research UK.

Cancer Research UK served as Thorn and Zumtobel’s chosen charity partner for the 2024–25 financial year.

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It’s been a busy few months in the electrical industry, with new appointments and shake-ups across different sectors. Keep up to date with the latest movements here, as we details who has gone where…

Jacqui Whittaker

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC

Schneider Electric has appointed Jacqui Whitaker as its new Vice President of Finance, UK and Ireland (UKI). Jacqui will lead the UKI finance team, focusing on maximising investment returns, supporting growth opportunities, and driving forward Schneider Electric’s broader sustainability goals.

She steps into the role with nearly a decade of international experience with Schneider Electric, having led the international business finance function across 100+ countries in South America, the Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa.

Charlotte Jackson

SCOLMORE GROUP

Scolmore Group has announced the appointment of Charlotte Clarkson as Area Sales Manager for the Hereford, Worcester, Warwickshire and Staffordshire regions. With over 30 years’ experience in the electrical industry, Charlotte brings a wealth of expertise to her new role and will be responsible for driving sales growth, nurturing client relationships and supporting the company’s mission of delivering cutting-edge electrical solutions.

Her day-to-day activities will include visiting electrical wholesaler accounts and contractors across the region, promoting the comprehensive and ever expanding Click brand of wiring accessories.

Kate Blake

ENVIROVENT

EnviroVent has appointed Kate Blake as Head of Specification, as the company strengthens its offer and drives forward with ambitious plans in the new build sector.

In her new role, Kate will be responsible for leading EnviroVent’s New Build Specification sales team, building strong relationships with housebuilders, developers, specifiers, M&E consultants and M&E contractors and driving growth in the specification of ventilation systems across the UK. Kate’s responsibilities also include enhancing EnviroVent’s new build strategy, supporting the specification sales team’s growth and raising its brand profile with housebuilders.

Kate has over 20 years’ experience in sales, business development and leadership within the construction sector, which has given her a broad network of contacts amongst consultants, M&E engineers, contractors and developers.

Phillip Conroy

ZEHNDER GROUP

Zehnder Group UK has announced the appointment of Phillip Conroy as its new National Sales & Key Account Manager.

In this pivotal role, Phillip will spearhead the strategic direction of Zehnder’s Heating Division, with a focus on strengthening key partnerships and refining the company’s radiator strategy. His leadership will play a crucial role in driving sustainable growth and ensuring the division remains aligned with Zehnder’s overarching business objectives.

Bringing with him an exceptional track record, Phillip has held senior roles at some of the most respected names in the home improvement industry, including Geberit, Kohler Mira, and Merlyn Showering.

Catch up on previous months ‘Movers and shakers’ articles here

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A recent survey by Drayton Controls and Schneider Electric found that home improvements to increase energy efficiency are the most popular among UK homeowners.

The survey found that home improvements that could result in energy savings were top of the list for 89% of homeowners. This ranked above other measures such as improving comfort & convenience (82%), making the property more sustainable (64%), installing home security (60%), design & aesthetic improvements (62%), and increasing the size of the property (36%).

This comes on the back of the energy crisis, with the average annual bill costing about £750 more compared to 2020-21 according to Ofgem. As such, energy efficiency has become more important to more homeowners than ever before. However, following the axing of winter fuel payments last year, the survey found that those aged 55+ (52%) were most concerned about energy efficiency, whereas less than half of those aged 35-54 (46%) or 18-34 (43%) felt it was important.

When it comes to the smart home tech that homeowners believe will contribute to improving energy efficiency, smart thermostats were the top choice (54%), outranking smart lighting (48%), smart EV charging (30%) and smart sensors (28%).

This presents a prime opportunity for installers to identify new work, as 54% of homeowners who invested in a smart thermostat relied on a professional to install it. And when it comes to spending, 27% of homeowners in the UK are prepared to spend up to £1,000 on home improvements that would increase energy efficiency, and 12% would spend between £1,000-£5,000.

Merlin Milner, Product Owner for Water-based Systems at Drayton, commented: “This survey highlights a clear trend – homeowners are prioritising energy efficiency more than ever, creating a significant opportunity for installers. With over half of those investing in smart thermostats relying on professional installation, there’s never been a better time for heating engineers and electricians to have a solution they are well versed in that can help customers reduce energy costs.”

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