FIRA International, the UK’s leading furniture technology centre, has announced the recent addition of three new experts to its consultancy team.
Gareth Mayhew joins as technical manager. Gareth’s manufacturing and technical expertise was developed during his previous compliance management role with one of the UK’s leading producers of upholstered furniture.
Prior to this, he worked within the financial sector where he was responsible for compliance and risk assessments. This proved to be an excellent grounding for understanding due diligence, which is a core requirement for today’s furniture manufacturers and retailers.
Gareth is responsible for FIRA’s team of technical and environmental consultants, delivering services to FIRA and providing technical advice and support to suppliers, manufacturers and retailers.
Stuart Cochrane has joined FIRA as sustainability consultant. Stuart’s broad expertise is ideal to help lead industry through the rapidly evolving Circular Economy.
He is not only responsible for research and development but will also ensure that FIRA International’s work relating to Club Green and the Furniture Industry Sustainability Programme (FISP) is delivered to the highest standards in support of the sector.
Paul Vaughan joins FIRA as a furniture technologist. Paul has existing structural, fire resistance and chemical analysis experience in testing, legislation, and CE marking of materials, components and products. In addition he has experience in EU procurement and specifications.
FIRA’s technical development manager, Dr Pete Beele, says; ‘We are delighted to have found individuals possessing both technical and business skills. Their combined expertise will enhance the team’s current ergonomic, certification, standards and sustainability portfolio ensuring that we support the development of our clients’ businesses and generate a unique knowledge base on behalf of the Furniture Industry Research Association.”
