Dr Stollard has led and gained extensive experience over the course of four decades in the fields of both architecture and fire engineering.

Having dedicated his career to advocating fire safety standards and procedures, Paul has been instrumental in overhauling Scottish Building Standards and served as the agency’s initial chief executive. In 2006, he was awarded the Peter Stone Award as recognition of his dedication to the building sector. As Paul’s responsibilities will extend globally, he eagerly anticipates leveraging his skill set to effect international change for our members.

Paul’s career in fire safety began over 40 years ago when he first completed the IFE’s membership exam whilst conducting research at Edinburgh University. Originally training as an architect, Paul later specialised in Fire Safety Engineering, acquiring several qualifications including a PhD focused on ‘the integration of fire safety into the process of architectural design’.

Paul said: “I really am thrilled to be joining the IFE in the capacity of both Chair and Trustee Director; with a background in design and fire engineering, I’m eager to collaborate with members and industry stakeholders across the globe to drive positive change within the fire safety space.”

Outside of the office, Paul has actively engaged with various aspects of fire safety and community service, he spent four years as a Regional Director with the Health and Safety Executive and chaired the expert review panel into Scottish building fire safety standards following the Grenfell Tower fire. Paul currently serves on the Board of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and is providing fire engineering consultancy related to Grenfell Tower.

Steve Hamm, IFE CEO, added: “As we welcome Paul to the IFE, his extensive expertise, together with his passion to the profession and communities make him an excellent addition to the IFE and the wider sector. This is huge year for the institution and Paul will play a key role in bringing many underlying projects to fruition.”

Paul officially began his three-year tenure from Monday 1st April, and the IFE looks forward to welcoming Paul to the IFE and to him bringing a new dimension of skills to the board.