Ernie McDonald Appointed Chair of the CIPHE Board of Trustees
The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) is pleased to announce that Ernie McDonald has been elected as Chair of the Board of Trustees, following a vote by CIPHE members at the Institute's Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 8th July 2026.
The AGM also saw members elect and confirm a number of appointments to the Board of Trustees, helping to shape the future direction and governance of the Institute.
A long-standing supporter of CIPHE through the Industrial Associates group, Ernie brings decades of experience in water treatment, governance and industry collaboration. Throughout his career, he has worked across both industrial and domestic water treatment markets and, as Chair of the Domestic Water Treatment Association (DWTA), played a key role in developing the original water treatment guidance that was adopted into the Building Regulations.
Speaking on his appointment, Ernie said: "I am delighted to have been elected the Independent Chair of the CIPHE. As I come to the end of my career in the Plumbing and Heating industry my aim is to support the work of the CIPHE. The scope includes the public, the membership, and the wider needs of the industry. Water is critical to the health and well-being of society, and the Plumbing and Heating industry plays a key role in water supply. The CIPHE are driving and supporting several initiatives on behalf of the membership including apprenticeships. I will strive to use my knowledge and skills to assist the CIPHE team in their current and future endeavours. It is also important the CIPHE team listen to our membership about their thoughts and needs. I look forward to a productive 4 years in my new role."
Alongside Ernie's appointment, the AGM confirmed several changes to the Board of Trustees.
Board appointments confirmed
- Charles Brooks – Independent Trustee and Honorary Company Secretary
- Kevin Thomas – Honorary Treasurer
- Louchavan Lemard FCIPHE, Eng Tech, RP – Trustee
The Institute also confirmed:
- Paul Daley MCIPHE as President
- Craig Gilhome MCIPHE, RP as Vice President
Following a successful year as President, Jason Clark LCGI Eng Tech FCIPHE RP now assumes the role of Immediate Past President Observer, where he will continue to support the Board and the Institute with his extensive knowledge and experience.
Thanking our outgoing Trustees
The Institute extends its sincere thanks to those who have completed their terms on the Board of Trustees:
- Nick Jones – Honorary Treasurer
- Kevin McCallister Eng Tech MCIPHE RP – Trustee
- Martyn Bridges Eng Tech MCIPHE RP – Co-opted Trustee
Their dedication, expertise and commitment have made a valuable contribution to the governance of the Institute, and we thank them for their service.
Remembering Paul Massey
The AGM also provided an opportunity to reflect on the contribution of Paul Massey, former Chair of the Board of Trustees, who sadly passed away earlier this year.
Paul served as Chair for four years, leading the Board with professionalism, integrity and a genuine passion for the Institute and the wider plumbing and heating profession. His commitment helped guide CIPHE through an important period, and his legacy continues to be felt across the organisation.
Everyone at CIPHE remembers Paul with great affection and gratitude, and we thank him for his outstanding service.
Welcoming our new Trustees
The Institute also welcomes Kevin and Louchavan to the Board of Trustees, while Charles has been re-elected for a second term and continues in his role as Independent Trustee and Honorary Company Secretary. Together, they bring a wealth of expertise spanning finance, legal governance and practical industry experience, further strengthening the Board's leadership.
CIPHE looks forward to working with the Board of Trustees as it continues to champion professionalism, education and excellence across the plumbing and heating profession.