New chairman for IAI in the Gulf

The Institute of Architectural Ironmongers (IAI) branch in the GCC has appointed Mike Lumsden, General Manager of Lorient Gulf LLC, as its new chairman.

Based in the United Arab Emirates, Lumsden will coordinate the activities of the IAI in the region, including its significant role in supporting students studying for the prestigious GAI Diploma which is very popular in the Gulf States.

Lumsden said: “Developers, contractors and specifiers in the Gulf are faced with a cornucopia of different hardware standards from the UK and Europe, USA and Far East. It’s very challenging to find a robust specification and architectural ironmongery schedule that genuinely meets the right quality standards on issues such as fire safety, accessibility or acoustics.

“Registered Architectural Ironmongers and IAI members within the GCC are a vital source of authoritative guidance for these clients. Our presence in the market raises the bar, and provides support to those who have to take responsibility for the building’s performance.”

The GCC branch organises a schedule of quarterly meetings for the benefit of its members. The meetings are informal and provide the opportunity to learn, network and socialise. Most meetings also present CPD opportunities.

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