IMA New President to Focus on Industry Integrity and Innovation

THE NEW PRESIDENT of the Insulation Manufacturers Association (IMA) will focus on industry integrity and innovation.

Paul Simpson steps into the presidency with an agenda focused on regulatory compliance and positioning the sector at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.

With 30 years’ experience in the insulation and construction industries, Paul Simpson is the Commercial Director at Recticel Insulation. He succeeds Nigel Blacklock of Bauder who steps down after two years.

IMA New President

In his inaugural address, Paul said he is looking forward to continuing to push IMA’s purpose to create a positive and dynamic business environment for the PIR and PUR Insulation industry. He emphasised key priorities for his term, including promoting industry integrity, ensuring adherence to new safety regulations, and fostering a culture of competence.

Paul stressed the importance of trustworthy product information. He stated, “Driving initiatives such as the CCPI ensures clients, partners, and end-users know that our products can be trusted and that what we say about the performance of our materials is trustworthy, without exaggeration or misrepresentation.”

Addressing the critical issue of industry competence, he said, “Competence is not just about having the necessary skills and knowledge; it is also about understanding the boundaries of what we can and cannot do in a compliant manner.” He advocated for empowering professionals to voice concerns without fear, viewing such instances as learning opportunities rather than failures.

Energy Efficiency

Paul also highlighted the importance of prioritising energy efficiency in construction, urging the sector to “embrace this challenge and work together to create a legacy of which we can all be proud. We should all be part of an industry that puts fabric first as a central pillar of construction principals in the UK.”

Simon Storer, CEO of IMA said: “Paul’s extensive experience and deep understanding of our industry make him an ideal leader to guide us through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

“His vision for promoting integrity, innovation, and sustainability aligns perfectly with our organisation’s goals. We look forward to working closely with Paul to further strengthen the insulation industry’s position as a key player in energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.”

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