THE CEA (Construction Equipment Association) has announced that Phil Battle, divisional director Volvo CE – product & services at SMT GB, has been unanimously elected to its board.
Phil will take on the portfolio of ESG and environmental sustainability in a move tipped to strengthen dealer and distributor representation within the association.
He brings over 20 years of leadership experience in the construction equipment industry to the role. At SMT GB, he leads a national team across nine customer support centres and is responsible for commercial sales and service operations throughout Britain for Volvo CE products and services. Phil’s career has also included senior roles at SMT GB and Finning, in both the UK and Canada.
Phil is currently pursuing an MBA in innovation, enterprise & circular economy at the University of Bradford, and serves as chair of the independent remuneration panel for North Yorkshire County Council.
He said, “I am delighted to be joining the CEA board and to have the opportunity to work more closely with the association and its members. The CEA has made significant progress in recent years – becoming more engaged, relevant, and ambitious in its support of the industry.
“I’m particularly pleased to take on the ESG and sustainability portfolio, which is such a critical focus for our sector’s future. I look forward to contributing my experience from the dealer and distributor side, and to helping the CEA continue this positive momentum.”
CEA chief executive Viki Bell added, “We are very pleased to welcome Phil to the CEA board. His appointment brings an important dealer and distributor perspective, and his enthusiasm for the work we are doing as an association is hugely encouraging.
“Phil has already been vocal in his recognition of the progress the CEA has made in recent years, and his insight on sustainability and transformation will add real strength to the Board as we continue to grow and evolve.”
The appointment follows the departure of Mark Ormond, who stepped down from the board after moving from Manitou to Avtron Power.
