The Materials Handling Engineers Association has appointed a new President, John Connolly, who will hold the post for the next two years.
Connolly, who has been VP for two years and a member of the MHEA’s Executive Committee for several years, took up the role at the AGM in October.
He takes the reins from outgoing President, Michael Kaye, who has held the post since October 2015. Roy Ball, a longstanding executive committee member, has become VP.
John Connolly said: “I strongly believe that the MHEA is the only association that offers our participating and hopefully future members the opportunity in becoming involved in a body that offers a range of benefits that engage all stakeholders.
“The atmosphere surrounding MHEA events such as visits to industrial plants, conferences, exhibitions, daily workshops and group networking days enables members to obtain clarity on what is happening in other businesses, customers organisations and the wider world.
“In recent years we have experienced many changes in line with the shifting landscape of our industry and the uncertainty many of our customers face resulting in the need for an adaptable supplier and service base.
“Our past President, Michael Kaye, has initiated a change in the way the MHEA promotes itself to both members and the industry by engaging with all on a regular basis through the various means of communication and promotion.”
“He has succeeded in dragging some of the more conservative members along with him and insisted we embraced the future methods of doing business in today’s world and for this I would personally like to thank him for his efforts as he leaves office.”
Michael Kaye, said: “I pass the President’s baton to John Connolly who has really put his back into the role of VP. In addition to the events and meetings, John has comfortably taken in his stride the numerous conference calls, financial oversight duties and email exchanges needed to keep everything rolling.
“Thank you, John, for your outstanding commitment and dedication, and I hope you find the role of MHEA President as rewarding as I have. The MHEA is on a firm footing and I have every confidence it will go from strength to strength.”