Chairman's Message
I have been involved in engineering roles within the wider chemical industry in the UK and mainland Europe for the last 38 years. I started as an apprentice with ICI and worked my way through various roles attaining a BEng (Hons) and then an MSc later in life. My time has mainly split between quarrying and the pharmaceutical sectors, where I have held positions in maintenance, project management, production and management. My current role concentrates mainly on aspects of professional development and some consultancy work within the pharmaceuticals sector. I am also a visiting lecturer at the University of Manchester where I deliver a modular based Pharmaceutical Engineering course.
For my tenure as Chairman of the Process Industries Division (PID), my objective will be to continue with the sound work of previous Chairmen who have made the Division so viable. I intend to ensure we provide value both to members of the Division and others with interest in the process industries and engage with more members.
The PID Board will continue to support the work of its Technical Activities Committees (TACs), and Centres in arranging various seminars, workshops and other outputs.
Strategic Objectives
- Build a reputation as an innovative leading-edge division, aiming to increase recognition internationally
- Co-ordinate seminars for maximum return from the available opportunities
- Promote technical activities that reflect the needs of the various sectors of the industry, including our new objective to establish a Water sector committee
- Co-operate within an annual budgetary framework clearly linked to strategic priorities, with staff accountabilities and (committee) member obligations clearly defined. This will include an annual review of our Division and its activities
- Improve communication, knowledge sharing, co-operation and understanding with other Divisions and Groups
- Establish more regional centres to deliver value locally
- Monitor the industry sector for interesting news items and improve the content of the Division’s website
- Stimulate the award of prizes and awards and attract sponsors wherever possible
- Enhance the Division’s relationship with relevant external bodies
EurIng Paul Merrick
Process Industries Division Chairman
July 2010