Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering
The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) is deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of its Chairman, Paul Massey, who recently passed away aged 73.
Paul joined the CIPHE Board as an Independent Trustee in 2020 and was appointed Independent Chairman in June 2022, bringing with him a wealth of experience, insight and leadership gained over many decades in the plumbing, heating and wider building services sector. During his time with the Institute, Paul was a thoughtful and steady guiding presence, committed to strengthening the profession and supporting the Institute’s mission to advance standards across the industry.
When injury brought and early end to his football career, it was the Gas Board (now British Gas) apprenticeship his club had supported him with that first brought him into the plumbing and heating industry.
Throughout a long and distinguished career, Paul held senior leadership positions within leading international heating and sanitaryware manufacturing businesses, including roles as Managing Director and Group CEO. His deep understanding of the industry, combined with a pragmatic and collaborative approach to leadership, earned him widespread respect across the sector.
Beyond his corporate career, Paul was widely recognised for his contribution to industry organisations and policy development. He played influential roles within several major bodies, including the Energy & Utilities Alliance, the Heating and Hotwater Industry Council, and the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, helping to shape discussions on the future of heating, energy and building services in the UK.
Paul’s relationship with the CIPHE extended beyond his role as Chairman. Prior to joining the Board, he served as Chair of the CIPHE Industrial Associates Development Group, where he worked to strengthen engagement between manufacturers and the professional plumbing community. His commitment to collaboration and knowledge-sharing reflected his belief that the industry is strongest when different parts of the sector work together.
As Chairman, Paul brought both experience and perspective to the Institute at an important time for the profession. With the sector facing challenges around skills, sustainability and the transition to low-carbon heating, he consistently championed the importance of professional standards, education and industry unity.
Reflecting on Paul’s contribution, Kevin Wellman, CIPHE CEO, said “Paul was not only an exceptional Chairman, but also a valued colleague and friend to many of us within the Institute. He brought wisdom, clarity and calm leadership to the Board, always encouraging thoughtful discussion and collaboration. His passion for the industry and his belief in the importance of professionalism and high standards were evident in everything he did.
On behalf of everyone at CIPHE, I would like to express our deepest condolences to Paul’s wife Nicki, his family and all those who knew and cared for him. He will be greatly missed.”
Those who worked with Paul remember not only his knowledge and leadership, but also his generosity with his time, his calm and considered approach, and his genuine passion for supporting the industry and the people within it.
Kevin added, “Paul’s contribution to the plumbing and heating sector over more than 40 years has been immense. Alongside a highly successful commercial career leading international heating and sanitaryware businesses, he was widely respected across the industry and played an important role in a number of key organisations, helping to shape conversations around standards, innovation and the future of our sector.
Paul’s contribution to the plumbing and heating sector, and to the organisations that support it, leaves a lasting legacy. He will be greatly missed by colleagues, friends and all those who had the privilege of working alongside him.
The thoughts of everyone at the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering are with Paul’s wife Nicki, his family and loved ones at this difficult time.