Born in Dumbarton and raised in Clydebank, John was educated at Clydebank College, Cardonald College, and Glasgow College of Building and Printing. He is a qualified Master Plumber certified by the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), a certified Gas Technician through the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM), and a registered Engineering Technician (EngTech) with the Engineering Council.

In 1999, John founded John Doherty & Co Ltd. Based in Old Kilpatrick, West Dunbartonshire, the company employs 19 full-time employees and provides a wide range of building services to its clients, including Scottish Water, North View Housing Association, West Dunbartonshire Council and Hampden Park Stadium.

John also served as the President of the Glasgow & West of Scotland Plumbing Employers’ Association, bringing valuable leadership knowledge to his current role.

With a long-standing history of leading through innovation and a strong commitment to industry standards and environmental stewardship, Doherty brings extensive experience to his new role. Under his guidance, SNIPEF aims to spearhead substantial changes that will not only address immediate industry needs but also ensure long-term sustainability.

Commenting on his election as President, John Doherty said, “It is an honour to lead SNIPEF at this crucial time. Addressing the ongoing skills shortage in our profession is vital, particularly as the transition to low-carbon heating, crucial for hitting government net-zero targets, is significantly behind. This shortfall underscores the urgency of our mission and the critical role our profession must play.

A central initiative of his presidency is to bridge the skills gap within the plumbing and heating profession. “By reviewing and enhancing our Modern Apprenticeship in Plumbing and Heating, we aim to attract and develop the talent necessary to sustain our profession’s growth and meet evolving environmental and societal standards”, John explained.

Additionally, John emphasised the need for public education on sustainable heating options: “Recent SNIPEF research has found that 59% of people do not feel they have the knowledge needed to transition to low-carbon heating systems.

“Educating homeowners and the wider community about these alternatives is essential for meeting our climate goals and our profession’s economic health. We must accelerate our efforts and work collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure this transition is successful,” he added.

John’s presidency will run from 24 May 2024 until 23 May 2025.