Sean Smyth becomes ECA President

The new President of ECA is business leader and electrical engineer, Sean Smyth.

Sean recently celebrated 50 years in the electrical industry, having begun his career as a JIB apprentice in 1973 and progressing to become CEO of WT Parker Group.

During Sean’s tenure as CEO, he grew the business from £27m to £80m turnover, developing a diverse business in niche markets and forming key client partnerships.

The business was acquired by Edwin James Group in 2017 and rebranded as EJ Parker Technical Services (Central), with Sean remaining as a director on the board. Sean became an active member of the ECA in 1995.

Sean takes over the ECA presidency from Steve Murray. During the last 12 months, Steve played a critical role in guiding ECA as it supported its members through difficult times, including economic uncertainty around the pandemic, materials and labour shortages, and price volatility.

Sean comments, “I’m delighted to be taking over this prestigious role, representing ECA as an industry advocate and business leader. Our industry faces significant challenges, but I am determined to support ECA’s members and the wider industry to maximise every opportunity in the next 12 months.

“I want to use my time to enable every member to grow their business, prosper in this uncertain business climate, and be aware of all new initiatives though clear communication and ongoing support.”

ECA Presidential team

The full ECA presidential team for 2023/24 is as follows:

President – Sean Smyth

Senior Vice President – Stuart Smith

Vice President – Ruth Devine

Immediate Past President – Steve Murray

ECA CEO Steve Bratt adds, “We are delighted to announce Sean as our new ECA President. The entire ECA team look forward to working with Sean to further develop what the ECA delivers for its members, and in support of the wider engineering services sector.

“With Sean at the helm, ECA will continue to push the industry towards better skills and competence, safer buildings, and a greener sector as we move towards net zero.

“I would also like to welcome long-standing ECA advocate Stuart to the role of Senior Vice President, Ruth as Vice President, and finally to thank Steve for his vital contributions to ECA’s national and regional activity during the past year, and his support for the ECA team.”

The new ECA Presidential team was confirmed 17 May 2023.