New President for the GGF

The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has announced that GGF Group Vice-President, Tony Smith of Pilkington United Kingdom Ltd (part of the NSG Group), has been elected as the Federation’s new President.

The news was confirmed by the GGF Board, who unanimously backed the appointment following former President Mark Austin’s decision to step down from the role on 31st December 2020. Mark will remain on the GGF Board as immediate Past President.

On leaving the Presidency, Mark Austin commented: “It has been an honour to serve this organisation in this capacity, but due to work pressures and personal health concerns, I feel the time is right to stand down for the benefit of all concerned.

“I am grateful for the great support that I have received from the Directors and all the GGF Group Staff and I will be happy to support the new President in my role as Immediate Past President.”

New President Tony Smith brings great experience from his considerable background in glass manufacturing and has been on the GGF Board since 2012, representing the Flat Glass Manufacturers Council and more recently the GGF Glazing Executive.

In addition, Tony’s knowledge and acumen of the political arena saw him join the GGF Political Strategy Committee in 2017, then in December 2019, Tony was elected GGF Vice-President by his fellow Board Directors. 

On becoming GGF President, Tony Smith said: “I am delighted to accept the GGF Presidency and to continue the great progress the Federation has made over the last few years as the industry’s main trade body.

“There are of course huge challenges ahead as the trading environment continues to be adversely affected by the Coronavirus pandemic. In addition, now that the Brexit Transition Period has ended and the UK is no longer part of the EU, there will be changes but also exciting opportunities for the industry and the GGF.

“I look forward to ensuring that GGF Members get the best value and representation during my tenure as President.”

John Agnew, GGF Managing Director, added: “I would like to thank Mark for all his support for the GGF and for me personally in my first year as GGF Managing Director. I wish him well for the future.

“I also welcome the appointment of Tony Smith as President and I am sure together with our Members and Staff, the GGF under Tony’s leadership will continue to progress in the face of the many challenges ahead.”

The GGF has set up a new Meet the Board page on its website, with profiles of all the GGF’s Board Directors.

Contact:

Glass and Glazing Federation
40 Rushworth Street
London
SE1 0RB
LONDON

t: 0207 939 9101

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