Our Field Support & Training Team has been recognised with the IBD Team of the Year award from Hochiki Corporation’s International Business Division. This achievement is a testament to the scale of work delivered, and the consistency and professionalism behind it.

Over the past year, the team has delivered more than 300 man-days of support and over 200 training courses, placing them among the highest-performing teams across Hochiki’s global network. These figures alone are impressive, but they only tell part of the story.

Operating across demanding schedules, international commitments, and the unpredictability that comes with field-based work, the team has continued to provide seamless service. Their ability to maintain high standards, adapt to challenges, and consistently meet targets highlights the depth of expertise and teamwork that defines their approach.

Training plays a critical role in ensuring our systems are understood, applied correctly, and ultimately deliver the performance expected in life safety environments. This recognition reinforces the quality and impact of that work, supporting engineers, partners, and customers with the knowledge and confidence they need.

Congratulations to the Field Support & Training Team: Pete Bone, Tom Woolnough, Chris Beacon, Lee Oxley, and Steve Close.

Individual Recognition: Martyn Skinner

Alongside the team award, individual recognition was also given to Martyn Skinner, Head of Supply Chain.

Martyn has been acknowledged for fostering a culture among his team centred on continuous learning, development, and collaboration. Through his leadership, team members have actively engaged in professional development programmes, strengthening both individual capability and overall team performance.

His work has also enhanced cross-departmental relationships, raising the visibility and impact of the Supply Chain and Procurement function. By championing a people-focused approach, he has helped drive improvements in operational standards while supporting a more connected working culture.

The award was presented to Martyn by Yonezawa-san, Director at Hochiki Corporation, recognising the significant contribution he has made both within his team and across the wider organisation.

A Moment to Reflect

Recognition like this is important. It reflects not only what has been achieved, but how it has been achieved: through teamwork, commitment, and a shared goal.

Both the Field Support & Training Team and Martyn’s individual recognition highlight the importance of investing in people, sharing knowledge, and continuously improving. These are the foundations that support long-term success, internally and across the wider network of partners and customers.

A strong result, and one well worth celebrating!