SSAIB CEO Alex Carmichael to retire

Having led the SSAIB since 2015, Alex Carmichael has announced his retirement at the end of March 2023.

Alex took over from previous CEO, Geoff Tate, and has expanded the UKAS-accredited fire and security certification body’s scope over the past eight years. In that time, he has built up the administration expertise and extended the number and competence of SSAIB’s audit teams. The SSAIB now counts 2,000 companies in its client base.

Alex had previously been the Director of Technical Services at the British Security Industry Association (BSIA), whom he had been with for 16 years. His career also included over 24 years’ experience in the British Army in various Electronic/Optronic technical/engineering roles within the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME).

During his time with the SSAIB and previously with the BSIA, Alex sat on several British, European and International standards committees. He more recently chaired the Standards Committee for the UK’s Surveillance Camera Commissioner.

Alex commented:

“As I step down and prepare for my next adventure in retirement, I reflect on the fact that in my eight years as Chief Executive of SSAIB, I have seen this remarkable industry meet many challenges and overcome them. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the SSAIB staff for their support, particularly for their can-do attitude, their knowledge and the proficient manner in which they carried their work which underpins the continuing growth and strength of the SSAIB.

“I can leave knowing that the organisation I have led for the past eight years has strong financial foundations, a first-class workforce, and a strong and capable management team.

“I thank all the SSAIB Board Members for their help over the years, the SSAIB Chairman, Geoff Tate for all his sage advice and all my industry colleagues over the past 24 years for all their help and support. Lastly, it has been a great pleasure to lead such a fantastic organisation as SSAIB and to be part of a wonderful ever-evolving industry.”

The Whitley Bay-based inspectorate adds that Paul Phillips, who was recently appointed as General Manager, will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the SSAIB after Alex’s departure.

Everyone at IFSEC Global, IFSEC and FIREX would like to wish Alex all the best with his retirement and thank him for his counsel, advice and guidance over the years.  

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