CITS WELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBER SUNEETA JOHAL
At the end of last year, Chief Executive of the Construction Equipment Association Rob Oliver, announced his retirement, not only from the CEA, after serving two decades, but, also as long standing CITS Board member and Treasurer. In his role he has passionately supported and championed the industry in the fight against crime, and this was honoured at the CITS conference, which took place at JCB world Headquarters at the end of November. At the event Rob’s hard work was recognised by the industry collectively, as part of a special awards ceremony that took place. An award has also been set up in Rob’s honour, and will be presented in the future to anyone recognised to go above and beyond in tackling theft and fraud in the construction and Agricultural sectors.
Rob was an inaugural part of the CITS Board, helping to tackle crime within the Construction and Agricultural sector for over 20 years. His hard work and determination first shone through with the launch of the official CESAR Scheme back in 2007. Since the CESAR marking system was launched, it has been adopted by leading manufacturers as a standard security feature, and has made a huge impact in deterring theft and as an invaluable aid to recovering stolen machinery. His next idea was then the introduction of a new carbon emissions compliance verification option to the CESAR Scheme, which is already proving to be equally a success.
In more recent years Rob has played a huge part in orchestrating and developing a new police unit, launched at the end of 2020 –OPAL/ACE. Rob worked tirelessly with insurers and trade associations to aid the funding and set up the much needed police unit. The new ACE team based at the heart of West Mercia constabulary, and led by DCC Amanda Blakeman, head of acquisitive crime, will no doubt continue Rob's legacy in the future of tackling crime. The new unit aims to align the police and industry in partnership.
The CITS Board were especially saddened to see Rob retire, but are delighted to welcome the newly appointed CEA Chief Executive, Suneeta Johal, join the Board. Suneeta no doubt will bring a fresh new approach to the sector.
David Smith who has taken over the role of CITS Treasurer from Rob Oliver had this to say:
“Rob has excelled in his role within the Construction Industry and CITS. He has brought a quiet professionalism which has helped to improve security and safety through innovations such as CESAR; and with his efforts in developing police liaison teams which industry is thankful for.
Prior to becoming CITS Treasurer, Rob has always provided sound judgment whilst on the Board, and I intend to follow his example in my role as the new Treasurer.
He is a true gentleman, with great charm and warm humour, who has the respect of everyone who has met him. He will be missed.
I am pleased that Suneeta has agreed to join the CITS Board, and I welcome her involvement, and helping to develop CITS.”
