Glassi

April 3, 2020

Reflections of a GGF Stalwart

Reflections of a GGF Stalwart

In February, Steve Rice decided to retire from his position as GGF Managing Director. Steve was with the Federation for over 30 years and is fondly remembered by many Members for his influential roles in the GGF Technical department. In this exclusive interview, Steve reflects on his outstanding career at the GGF.

Q1/ When did you start at the GGF and what was your role when you first started?

I started in 1989 as a Technical Officer. I came from an architectural background but was interested in the glass and glazing sector and decided to make the career change. I have never regretted making the change as I found this industry truly fascinating and have seen incredible innovations over the last 30 years.

Q2/ What technical changes have you seen in the industry and the GGF in your time?

There have been too many to list but I think when CE marking became compulsory it was a huge change for the industry. Also the changes in fire regulations over the last three decades have been huge and led to the high specification of fire resistant glazing in our industry. Safety and security glass has also seen considerable technical changes and this area is still changing. The GGF changes have been significant. When I started the Federation was in Borough High St in a very old building with no energy efficient windows or doors as it was a listed building. At the time the GGF was just the Federation and we had not formed any commercial companies. So the industry landscape was without a national compulsory competent persons’ scheme, had no window energy ratings systems and all inspections were through the local authority. Today the GGF and its commercial companies are firmly established in the industry and the emphasis on helping improve buildings and consumers’ lifestyles has dramatically increased in the last 20 or so years. 

Q3/ What would you consider to be amongst your biggest achievements at the GGF?

Personally being promoted to Director of Technical Affairs and then to Managing Director was a great honour and I was proud to accept these positions to help the Federation progress. The achievements at the GGF are always collective and collaborative and not just down to one individual. So I was pleased to be part of a team that over the years has developed The GGF Glazing Manual and GGF Technical Library to provide comprehensive guidance for the industry. It also gives me real pleasure to see so many Members become part of the Federation during my time and contribute their knowledge and time to make the GGF what it is today – the industry’s main trade body that works to improve the operating environment for its Members. 

Q4/ Is your retirement a clean break from the industry or will you continue in some capacity?

I will be retiring but will continue to take an interest in the industry and will be happy to offer some part-time consultancy if required. I have also made many great friends in the industry and of course I will keep in touch with them. I would like to thank the GGF staff and Members who have helped me throughout my career. It has truly been a great journey.

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