SOE: New Chief Executive at the Society of Operations Engineers

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Tuesday, 18, Sep 2007 12:00

The Society of Operations Engineers (SOE), a leading membership organisation for engineers in the road transport, plant and engineer surveying industries, officially appointed Nick Jones as its Chief Executive on

18 September 2007.

SOE President, Ian Ling announced the news, highlighting Nick’s leadership qualities, achievements to date and his ability to drive the Society forward at an exciting time for the engineering profession in the UK. Ian said: ‘Nick’s expertise covers managing change, re-branding and establishing a strong corporate vision, all of which has been proved through successful guidance of the SOE in renewing IIP (Investors In People) status – something he also accomplished within previous roles.’

The position will be far from a new one for Nick. He joined the SOE as Head of Finance in 2001, but has effectively led the Society as Acting Chief Executive following the departure of Marian Kelly in December 2006. A Chartered Accountant, Nick’s logical and thorough approach will ensure a suitably balanced organisation. Ian Ling added: ‘Nick brings to the post his undoubted expertise in all matters of business, of which we had the benefit during his term as Head of Finance.’

In addition to his professional quality, Nick’s approachable and learned manner is sure to inspire colleagues to spearhead the SOE’s values, which promote engineering as an essential vocation within society.

SOE represents around 17,000 engineers and companies across three professional sectors. Formed in 2000, the Society's aim is to be recognised world-wide as a relevant organisation that strives for best practice. Licensed by the Engineering Council (ECUK) to nominate members for registration, the SOE promotes safe, efficient and environmentally sustainable operations engineering to the benefit of the community. The SOE is also a partner in the CV Show, one of Europe’s largest commercial vehicle exhibitions. The Show is held in Birmingham on 15-17 April 2008.

Eager to build upon previous successes, Nick is keen to secure greater recognition for the organisation and, more specifically, its members. Nick explained that he looks forward to working with the SOE team, Trustee Board, Professional Sector Councils and Regional Officers to maximise member benefits. Emphasising the importance of the Society of Operations Engineers, he said: ‘I am committed to promoting the SOE in any way I can, as skilled and competent engineers are essential for the wellbeing of the UK.’

Editor’s notes:

Biography:

Born in Zambia, Nick arrived in the UK in 1961, achieving Chartered Accountant status in 1972. His first exposure to engineering was at Tube Investments (TI), where he worked at the TI Engineering Division Headquarters. Following a transfer to one of their subsidiary companies, Crane Packing, Nick moved into the financial services industry, working for Crusader Insurance in Reigate for 8 years. His role at Crusader involved pension scheme accounting, investments and overseas operations.

Nick completed a contract with London Underground to finalise new accounting procedures, whilst developing their new governance procedures before joining the SOE.

SOE (Society of Operations Engineers)

SOE is a professional membership organisation that represents around 17,000 individuals and companies in the engineering industry. The SOE has three professional sectors – IRTE, IPlantE and BES (see below for more details. The Society promotes safe, efficient and environmentally sustainable operations engineering to the benefit of the community at large, through the support of best practice and health and safety initiatives, a commitment to the professional development of its members and by influencing legislation and design.

The SOE is online at www.soe.org.uk and www.myspace.com/engineeringsuccess

IRTE (Institute of Road Transport Engineers)

IRTE, one of the most respected names in UK transport, was founded in 1944 and is recognised as an impartial voice of the industry. It encourages high standards of excellence with an emphasis on safety in operation, demonstrated by its research and education programme for members and industry. The IRTE is also a partner in the CV Show, alongside the RHA and SMMT.

IRTE members come from a wide variety of transport-related roles including apprentices and technicians in the light and heavy and bus and coach sectors, workshop managers, fleet engineers, transport managers and company directors.

BES (Bureau of Engineer Surveyors)

BES was established in 1965 as a specialist technical organisation for engineer surveyors to keep up-to-date with relevant technical information. Engineer surveyors independently assess plant and machinery for legal compliance and technical risk. BES activities are also of interest to building services engineers, technical health and safety professionals and those involved in engineering facilities.

IPlantE (Institution of Plant Engineers)

The IPlantE was founded in 1946 and is the Professional Sector for engineers, technicians and those with an interest in the specification, installation, operation and maintenance of industrial plant and services.

IPlantE members represent a huge range of engineering-related activities including static and rotating plant, industrial installation, mobile plant, power generation and distribution, utilities, system design, construction, production and maintenance and repair.