![Suneeta Johal: joins the CEA from the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed](/sites/wh/files/styles/slider_main/public/2021-09/EUROnews%20-%20UK%20-%20Johal%20new%20head%20CEA.jpg?itok=xUCvrMBD)
Suneeta Johal has been appointed chief executive of the Construction Equipment Association, taking over from Rob Oliver who held the post for 20 years.
Johal takes over on October 4 from Oliver, who will retire. He was the first chief executive of the CEA.
Johal joins the CEA from the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE), where she was director of commercial development. She was responsible for the commercial strategy of the organisation, including membership growth. In her role as head of research, education and training, she was responsible for developing and implementing a research, education, and training strategy as part of the senior leadership team.
“The original plan was that I should step down a year or so ago, but Covid-19 struck and I agreed to stay a little longer,” said Oliver. “Now the time seems right to step aside and let Suneeta bring a fresh and younger approach. I am pleased that on my watch we were able to grow our membership and international activities and create the Plantworx construction exhibition. More recently, my idea of introducing an emissions compliance verification option to the CESAR scheme is proving to be a winner.”