UK: Blane Judd has left the Building & Engineering Services Association. The surprise announcement sees the UK contractors' body searching for a new chief executive two years after the retirement of long-standing predecessor Robert Higgs.
Mr Judd joined B&ES (then HVCA) two years ago as chief executive designate, and succeeded to the chief executive role on 25 July 2011.

As well as overseeing the change of name to B&ES in March last year, he also contributed significantly to the process of workforce modernisation and reform and to the development of a 24-hour emergency helpline and supporting website warning consumers of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.

'Blane has worked closely with the officer team in developing a vision and strategy for the Association,' said B&ES President Sue Sharp.

'That strategy provides an excellent platform for our continuing effectiveness and prosperity in the challenging years that lie ahead,' she added.

Blane Judd commented that, following a period of reflection, he had decided that the time was right for him to seek a fresh opportunity that would employ his change management and innovation skills and experience to maximum effect.