28.02.2012

New chairman for LEEA

The UK based Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA), has appointed Phil White, joint managing director of Servtech as chairman. He replaces Chris Towne, who has stood down after completing his two year term.

White said: “I am extremely keen that the LEEA becomes a truly global entity and continues to develop and extend its portfolio of practical training courses. With Geoff Holden as chief executive we have already made good progress towards these objectives and it is important that the board continues to support him.”
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Phil White

“We also need to do more to educate end users about the importance of using genuinely competent staff for the test, examination and maintenance of lifting equipment, and promote the fact that LEEA membership and qualifications are the best possible evidence of the necessary standards of expertise and professionalism.”

White was a co-founder of Servtech in the mid-1980s. Initially focused on Non-Destructive Testing, the company now provides clients in the oil and gas industries with a wide range of inspection and safety services. He has already served on the LEEA’s technical committee and board, and was vice chairman during Chris Towne’s term of office.

The association has also chosen a new president, appointing Jim Coupe to replace John Kilby, who stands down after many years in this largely honorary role. Recently retired, Coupe has spent several decades in the lifting industry. His career included a number of senior management positions in sales and marketing, product management and general commercial and technical roles, for companies such as Crosby Europe, Arbil, Felco and Parsons Chain.

He has been actively involved in the LEEA since the 1970s and served as its chairman from 1999 to 2001. He also chaired three International Standards committees for chain and chain components.