Sofie Hooper appointed deputy CEO of APS to lead building safety initiatives
The Association for Project Safety (APS) has announced the appointment of Sofie Hooper as its new Deputy Chief Executive Officer. This strategic move aims to enhance APS’s capability in addressing building safety standards and delivering key initiatives to its members. Hooper transitions to APS from her previous role as Head of Policy and Research at the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), a global membership body with over 11,500 members.
Sofie Hooper has built a career in public policy advising, primarily focused on the UK and European Union. Her extensive experience includes playing a pivotal role in the IWFM’s Building Safety policy strategy. She co-authored the influential report "Safer people, safer homes: Building Safety Management," which was developed in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy. This report has had a lasting impact on the regulatory landscape, influencing the implementation of the Building Safety Act 2022. Additionally, Hooper was instrumental in securing the inclusion of The Building Safety Alliance in pre-legislative reports to Parliament and the Government, reflecting her commitment to advancing building and safety regulations.
In her new role at APS, Hooper will report directly to CEO Andrew Leslie. The creation of the Deputy CEO position underscores APS’s focus on consolidating its competence and outreach efforts. Hooper's immediate responsibilities will include leading initiatives related to APS’s competence and training schemes. Her efforts will also involve collaboration with other professional bodies and business partners to enhance the support provided to APS members.
Speaking on her appointment, Sofie Hooper expressed enthusiasm for her new role. "For three decades, APS has been the driving force in improving health and safety standards within the construction industry. I’m thrilled to be joining an organisation that continually strives to put excellence and innovation in building safety front and centre of a progressive agenda," she stated. Hooper emphasised her eagerness to engage with APS members and stakeholders to ensure that best practices in building safety are not only upheld but actively pursued.
Andrew Leslie, CEO of APS, commented that the organisation is "delighted to welcome Sofie to the APS team." He highlighted that Hooper’s proven track record within the built environment will significantly contribute to the APS senior management team, bringing in essential expertise that will support the overall strategic goals of the organisation.
APS President Mark Snelling echoed Leslie's sentiments, noting, "APS is extremely privileged to have Sofie join us as Deputy CEO. Sofie is highly respected within the industry and has been closely connected with the changes that have followed the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower." Snelling expressed his anticipation of working closely with Hooper and Leslie to ensure that APS effectively supports its members while driving necessary changes to building safety practices.
Sofie Hooper officially assumes her new responsibilities immediately, signifying a proactive step by APS in bolstering its leadership and enhancing its strategic direction in the important area of building safety. This appointment not only marks a significant milestone for Hooper but also signals APS's commitment to safeguarding health and safety standards within the construction sector, as it continues to address the ongoing challenges and complexities of building safety and regulation across the UK.