KNAUF CREATES NEW ADVOCACY ROLE
Mandeep Bansal has been appointed as the first Technical Advocacy Director for Knauf UK & Ireland. The new role signals Knauf’s intention of committing more resource towards a collaborative, knowledge-sharing approach across the sector.
With approaching twenty years’ experience in the technical team at Knauf – most recently as Technical Development Director – there is no-one better placed for such a role.
“The intention is to take an ambassadorial function across market stakeholders: trade associations, technical standards committees and specification groups,” says Mandeep. “This level of contact allows us to share informed opinion, discussing new systems and performance standards, and ensuring that everyone is fully informed on what is and is not possible with gypsum products.”
This appointment comes at a critical time for the sector, with the new BS8000:8 Standard for Drylining due to be released for consultation later this year and with ongoing discussion around the issue of fire risk, competency around product specification and the development of clear, standardised, product descriptions.
“Discussions around the Hackett report are just the latest to call for more collaboration across the construction industry” continues Mandeep. “My new role encourages the sharing of technical knowledge to ensure compliant systems are offered to the market. We prefer to be proactive with stakeholders, working together to ensure that all buildings are constructed to be fit for purpose.”
Mandeep brings to the table an unrivalled knowledge of gypsum-based products and systems. As well as creating this new role, Knauf is also supporting Mandeep to embark upon a part-time PhD. Mandeep’s research project will support Knauf’s research and development capability while further extending the resource available to the market through the new advocacy role.
