GRAHAM Arundell, the CEO of the Hire Association Europe (HAE) and Event Hire Association (EHA), is to retire after thirteen years at the helm.
During his tenure, HAE and EHA have introduced new member services, including in matters relating to insurance, health and safety certification and training.
In 2009, his creation of EHA resulted for the first time in a dedicated organisation to represent hire companies and suppliers associated with events or working within the events sector. Mr Arundell also led the development of the association’s SafeHire and HITS schemes into the industry.
He said, “I was advised at the outset that the role would be challenging, and that was part of the attraction. It’s certainly lived up to that but I’ve had some great experiences and opportunities meeting lots of people along the way that will remain life-long friends.”
Brian Sherlock, HAE chair added, “Graham has not only made a valued and sustained contribution to the HAE, he has also had a significant influence within the hire sector. His drive and relentless enthusiasm coupled with strong leadership and networking skills has driven real change within the association – on behalf of the former and current directors of the Tool & Equipment, Event Hire and Supplier Boards, thank you.”
Mr Arundell will stand down at the end of April. He plans to spend time renovating a new property in his home village of Scruton, North Yorkshire and has agreed to remain as a consultant with HAE EHA for up to a year to help ease the transition period under the new CEO.
The search will now begin for a successor, with applications sought from people with a hire background, as well as experience working with a trade association.
