"I am delighted to be appointed vice-chairman and I look forward to building a strong partnership with BSIA members in order to move the industry forward. In particular, I would like to improve our reputation with end users so that we can all benefit from improved margins as a direct result of real added value being delivered to our clients" says Stuart Lowden.

"I am well aware that we need to universally recognise the importance of our employees and provide training, career pathways and remuneration packages to attract the best. As such, a principal personal goal of mine will be to improve our social charter and I hope that BSIA members will support me and embrace this challenge" Mr Lowden continues.

"I welcome Stuart's appointment as vice-chairman of the BSIA. I am sure that his considerable experience within the industry will be invaluable to the association. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our outgoing vice-chairman, Jim Harrower, for his vast contribution to the BSIA over the years" comments David Dickinson, BSIA chief executive.

New section chairmen and vice-chairmen have also been elected as follows:

CCTV section: Vice-chairman - Alan Lefford (Xtralis (UK) Ltd); Police and public services section: Chairman - Michael Lee (Constant Security Services Ltd); Physical security equipment section: Chairman - Clive Baker (Kaba (UK) Ltd), Vice-chairman - Tim Lonsdale (ATG Access Ltd); Security Consultancies Section: Vice-chairman - Barry Walker (MFD International Ltd); Security Guarding section: Chairman - Derek Smith (Legion Group Plc), Vice-chairman - Martin Rackstraw (OCS Resolution Security).

All other section chairmen and vice-chairmen will continue in office for a further year.