Global independent inspection expert Bureau Veritas has announced the strategic appointment of building control veteran, Dave Allen, who will head up the business’ construction-focused division. As business unit director, Dave will lead the 80-strong team across the building control, fire engineering, structural and construction management disciplines. The move comes at an important time for the construction industry, as the spotlight falls on the critical need to review the entire approach to fire safety following the Grenfell tragedy. Dave brings with him 34 years’ experience following a leadership and integration tenure with Stroma and 18 years at Butler & Young, some of which as the company’s Managing Director. This comes after dedicating the best part of 15 years to a local authority role at the start of his career. He will now deploy his considerable expertise and clarity to lead the charge on championing a best practice approach to construction compliance. As the secretary of The Association of Consultant Approved Inspectors (ACAI) and actively involved with the Construction Industry Council (CIC), he is ideally placed to share the latest industry insights, cascading from a strategic Government level both internally and with customers who are looking for the highest levels of competency and professionalism in construction compliance. Commenting on his new position, Dave said: “After a great grounding in a local authority building control roles, I’ve established a reputable career in the private building control industry and have vast experience at a strategic leadership level, as well as on-the-ground experience of working on large projects across a range of sectors. My work with the ACAI also means I am involved at the highest level of the discussions around how to make much-needed improvements to how the industry and customers approach and fire safety. “Bureau Veritas, as a leading global inspection body and health and safety expert is therefore an ideal fit, as it allows me to utilise my experience, both in a leadership and industry-expert capacity, and really champion the critical need for giving construction compliance the level of importance it needs. The Grenfell tragedy really highlighted some of the major gaps in the industry and, whilst there is no quick fix, there is a lot to be done. Being part of such a large and well-placed organisation is the ideal place to influence real change and it is my aim to bring both my valued team and Bureau Veritas customers on this crucial journey with me.” Ken Smith, chief executive officer at Bureau Veritas, adds: “With his invaluable industry experience, there was no-one better to head up our construction-focused division and I have no doubt that he is going to support our global capabilities within the construction industry and be instrumental in driving our ambition to be the UK’s number one compliance partner. I am also certain he is going to make real strides in influencing the future of building control and have a positive impact not only internally but for our customers and the wider industry in general.” To find out more about Bureau Veritas please call 0345 600 1828 or email info@uk.bureauveritas.com. Alternatively, please visit www.bureauveritas.co.uk