Paul Atkinson (pictured), CEO of Prysmian Group UK aims to build on the highly successful work already delivered as he takes over as president of the British Cables Association (BCA) and chairman of the Approved Cables Initiative (ACI) this month.
The announcement of the changes at the BCA’s Annual General meeting sees Michael Simms stand down in favour of Atkinson who assumes the role of president of the BCA from 13 June 2012. Members accepted Simms’ resignation with regret, but were unanimous in their support for Mr Atkinson.
After the more formal aspects of the AGM Paul Atkinson was effusive in his praise for Simms’ work on behalf of the BCA and ACI.
Atkinson said: “In the four years Michael has been president, the BCA has grown in influence and the ACI, a vital part of the BCA, has gone from a wish list item to a fully supported active campaign against unsafe and defective cables entering the UK market.
“The success, measured by the number of incidents of defective cable that have come to light over the past four years and the growing recognition of the ACI and its relentless campaign, is a tribute to Michael’s energy, enthusiasm and drive. The ACI is an on-going education and communication programme that will succeed in its objective and the whole of the electrical supply chain has benefitted from Michael’s endeavours.
“Personally I aim to build upon the work Michael has delivered and hope I can call upon him, as the immediate past president, for assistance and support in the international arena, especially in promoting the ACI,” said Atkinson.
Atkinson takes over as chairman of the ACI with effect 14 June 2012.
The BCA is the trade association for British manufacturers of insulated cable and wires and associated products. The Approved Cables Initiative is addressing the issue of unsafe,non-approved and counterfeit cable entering the UK marketplace. The ACI regularly tests samples of cables from concerned specifiers, contractors and distributors and where cable product is found to be unsafe details are supplied to relevant industry regulators and legislators. The ACI also provides guidance where appropriate to installers.
