Mr Smith's passion for the industry started in 1983 when he joined refrigeration company HTI Leeds as an electrician. Within his industry career he has held several high profile positions with companies Dean & Wood, Danfoss, Honeywell and more recently Beijer Ref.

In addition to his day job Mr Smith took on high profile roles such as president of the British Refrigeration Association in 2017 and chairman of FETA 2018.

John Billson, managing director of Beijer Ref UK and Ireland said: “John has been an integral part of the success of our company and I am sure our paths will cross again in the not too distant future.”