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NewsLuke Slater is FEA’s new Technical and Policy Director

Luke Slater is FEA’s new Technical & Policy Director

Ex-Tricon man has extensive experience of both hospitality and the equipment supply chain

FEA has appointed Luke Slater as the association’s Technical and Policy Director.  In recent years this has become an increasingly important role, calling for expert knowledge across a wide range of areas as well as the ability to lead technical bodies and apply, interpret and explain legislation and regulations. 

Slater has enormous pan-industry experience, in both hospitality and the equipment supply chain.  He began his catering career at the tender age of 14, doing occasional work in a local pub.  He progressed to being a chef, receptionist, housekeeper and ‘all things in between’, having taken a master’s degree in hospitality management at Plymouth University. 

From working on the operational side of hospitality he went on to join Victor Manufacturing, initially in a business development capacity, then as contracts manager, focusing on the technical and engineering aspects of project work.  He then joined C&C Catering Equipment as a project manager, delivering multi-million pound B&I, hotel and leisure projects.  He left to become senior design consultant at Tricon Foodservice Consultants. 

Slater says, “My academic studies and early experience in hospitality taught me the importance of a dynamic supply chain.  My later career has given me first hand installation and manufacturing knowledge, and the ability to understand what’s physically and technically achievable within a project, working with the regulatory obligations.”

FEA chair Emma Brooks is delighted to welcome Slater.  “He is an authority with outstanding expertise.  He’s an advocate for change but at the same time he can get right to the nuts and bolts of complex issues, and can explain them with clarity.  I know he will be a brilliant addition to our team and a big help to our members.”

Slater says he is looking forward to helping FEA members navigate the industry’s ever-changing technical and regulatory landscape.  “I love to be told that something ‘can't be done,’ it inspires me to find a solution,” he says.  “I appreciate the challenges that heavy and light equipment manufacturers face, often resulting from difficult to navigate, sometimes conflicting regulation. I want to streamline things, to support FEA members with the big battles ahead, and to give them unbiased, relevant and useful guidance.”

The ability to help FEA members meet the battles ahead was a prerequisite for the job of technical and policy director.  The challenges range from tackling embodied carbon reporting, FOG solutions, electrical safety and BIM protocols to youth engagement, refrigerants and how to overcome power hungry kitchens in a world of limited electrical supply.

Slater says, “FEA has a fantastic reputation across the industry, leading and giving insight into a vast range of topics.  I’m proud to now be associated with their excellent work and I can't wait to get stuck in.

“I’ve always wanted to make a difference in the industry, and joining FEA gives me the opportunity to do just that.”

Luke Slater is planning to visit as many FEA members as possible to discuss their technical challenges and opportunities.  If you’d like to meet up with him, please email luke.slater@fea.org.uk.

FEA Industry Conference Early Bird booking rates are available until 31st July - exclusive to FEA members. Secure yours here.

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  • Ventilation and Fire Suppression
  • Warewashing

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