New chair for Federation of Piling Specialists

The UK's Federation of Piling Specialists (FPS) has appointed Malcolm O'Sullivan as its new chair, succeeding John Chick who has completed his two-year tenure.

Malcolm officially began his leadership role on 16 May 2024 with a commitment to furthering the FPS’s core values and strategic objectives.

Malcolm, currently the chief operating officer at Van Elle, brings over 20 years of extensive experience in ground engineering and deep foundation construction to the role.

During his tenure, Malcolm aims to focus on advancing all areas of safety, sustainability, diversity, and inclusivity. He also plans to continue enhancing the profile of the piling sector, ensuring it is recognised as a pivotal part of the construction industry’s growth, sustainability, and innovation.

Key initiatives Malcolm intends to promote include:

Safety Enhancements: Addressing key areas for improvement, such as clearing concrete lines and preventing, locating and clearing blockages in CFA piling, through specific working groups and commissioned research.

Sustainability Goals: Driving the FPS’s net zero carbon journey by embedding sustainability in the FPS audit process and reporting on members’ project carbon footprints quarterly.

Digitisation: Developing digitalisation within FPS members to facilitate information sharing for industry benefits.

Diversity and Inclusivity: Promoting opportunities for all within the sector and enhancing initiatives like the Young Careers Group to foster the next generation of industry leaders.

Malcolm’s vision is aligned with the FPS’s longstanding commitment to safety, high standards, and proactive collaboration with its members to drive industry improvements.

Commenting on his appointment Malcolm said: “It is an absolute honour to be appointed Chair of the FPS. I am eager to build upon the strong foundation laid by my predecessors and to ensure our sector continues to punch above its weight within the wider construction industry.”