UKATA is pleased to announce the appointment of Ellie Johns to its Board of Directors as a representative of the Non-Licensable sector and to confirm the appointment of Adam Harding as Deputy Chair of the Association. The Association also extends its sincere thanks to Professor Roger Willey for his dedicated service as his term comes to an end.
The UKATA Board of Directors is comprised of elected members from within the Association and is responsible for providing strategic direction and governance. The Board plays a central role in shaping the future direction of the organisation, ensuring high standards are maintained and that the Association continues to respond proactively to industry and regulatory developments. Each Director holds individual responsibility for a Portfolio or Working Group, including Membership, New Course Development, Brand & Development, Marketing, Finance and Technical.
Ellie Johns joins the Board with over a decade of experience in the asbestos training sector, having developed a strong and respected presence through her commitment to delivering high-quality education and consultancy. She began her career in an asbestos bulk laboratory and actively sought broader industry experience before progressing into asbestos training, a discipline that has since become her primary professional focus.
As an experienced UKATA and BOHS trainer, Ellie delivers a comprehensive range of courses including Asbestos Awareness, Non-Licensed Work, Asbestos Project Manager and Duty to Manage. In addition to course delivery, she is closely involved in the development of new training programmes and the continual review and enhancement of materials to ensure they remain current and effective.
Alongside her training responsibilities, Ellie undertakes consultancy work including audits, compliance reviews and the preparation of asbestos management plans. This blend of practical consultancy and extensive classroom experience gives her a well-rounded perspective on how syllabus changes and industry developments translate into meaningful, real-world learning. Her appointment reflects her commitment to learner safety and her ambition to contribute at a strategic level to support the ongoing development of UKATA.
Adam Harding’s appointment as Deputy Chair further strengthens the Association’s leadership team, he has served as a member of the board of directors since 2020. In this role, he will work closely with the UKATA Chief Operating Officer, Craig Evans, Chair, Graham O’Mahony and fellow Board members to support effective governance, guide strategic priorities and ensure UKATA continues to represent its members and the wider industry with professionalism and integrity.
UKATA Chief Operating Officer, Craig Evans expressed his gratitude to Professor Roger Willey, on behalf of the association stating:
“On behalf of UKATA, the Board of Directors and our members, I would like to sincerely thank Roger Willey for his dedication and service over the years. His commitment, insight and professionalism have made a significant contribution to the governance and development of the Association. We are extremely grateful for the time and expertise he has given to UKATA, it has been a privilege".
Professor Willey has over 40 years’ experience in asbestos research, consultancy, and training and has been involved in over 100,000 different asbestos-related contracts. He has also worked closely with the HSE on the development of training packages to introduce new concepts following the introduction of Regulation 4 in the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002.
Roger has been involved in many of the important developments in the asbestos industry - from the early days before the asbestos licensing regulations, up to today’s highly regulated framework.
UKATA remains committed to strong leadership, robust governance and maintaining the highest standards in asbestos training across the United Kingdom.
UKATA, a leading association, is dedicated to enhancing the quality and standards of asbestos training with the aim to shield workers and the public from the hazards of asbestos exposure.
The association collaborates closely with its members to guarantee that they have access to the latest information, training resources, and industry updates. They provide a suite of support services to assist them in accomplishing their training objectives. Their membership encompasses a diverse array of organisations involved in asbestos training, including training providers, asbestos removal contractors, consultants, and equipment suppliers.
UKATA is fervent about promoting safe and responsible working practices, committed to working with members and partners to realise a shared vision of protecting workers and the public from the hazards linked with asbestos exposure.
Published on Thursday 19th March 2026