SPRA Set Bring in New CEO

THE SINGLE PLY ROOFING association has chosen a new chief executive, set to take over from Cathie Clarke in June.

The association has also taken the decision to postpone its June conference.

New appointee Dr Ronan Brunton has been a member of the SPRA team since August 2018, with a particular focus on technical and quality issues and maximising learning emanating from the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety (the “Hackitt Review”).

Prior to joining SPRA, Ronan spent over 30 years in the flat roofing industry with both membrane manufacturers and roofing contractors in senior technical and commercial roles. This included a number of years at Managing Director level with SPRA members.

As a graduate member of the Institution of Civil Engineers, Ronan also has research interests of issues including sustainability and business ethics in construction, which he practices at post-Doctoral level.

Martyn Holloway, SPRA Chairman said, “We are fortunate to have someone of Ronan Brunton’s calibre and experience to step up to lead SPRA.  I would like to thank Cathie Clarke for her exemplary service to the organisation over the last five years and her role in expanding its membership base, creating a real community spirit and growing its profile and influence.

“I know Cathie and Ronan share the same principles in terms of quality and collaboration and I am pleased that both will work together in the coming months to ensure a seamless transition. On behalf of the SPRA Council, its management team and the membership I wish Ronan every success in this new appointment.”

Handover period

A transition period has already begun with Ronan and the team ahead of outgoing CEO Cathie Clarke stepping down.

Following the handover in June, Cathie will then stay on in a limited capacity until the end of the year offering support to Ronan and the rest of the SPRA team to ensure a smooth departure and no reduction in services to either members or the wider industry.

Cathie Clarke said, “I am delighted to be handing over the reins to Ronan and am looking forward to continuing with the handover.  It was with a heavy heart that I tendered my resignation for family reasons.

“Quality, community and collaboration have been my watchwords since joining SPRA and I’m proud to have been involved with helping to shape the future of the construction sector in collaboration with our fellow trade organisations.

“Ronan is both passionate and enthusiastic about SPRA and the possibilities for the future. I am confident that he will further strengthen the organisation and the single ply industry, and I wish him and the SPRA Council all the best.”