The Institute of Refrigeration (IOR) announced the election of two new Board Trustees, Robert Lamb FInstR and Sam Parris FInstR, at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 10 November 2026. The meeting also marked the start of Steve Gill FInstR’s term as IOR President, succeeding Lisa-Jayne Cook FInstR.
Cook thanked the election candidates for their willingness to serve and acknowledged outgoing Trustees Dermot Cotter FInstR and Julie Murray FInstR for their contributions. She also confirmed that the newly elected Trustees would be encouraged to take a more active role in IOR initiatives and committees.
Robert Lamb has over 30 years of refrigeration industry experience, beginning with PhD studies in refrigeration technology and progressing through engineering and management positions. He currently serves as a director of an industrial refrigeration contracting business and has previously held IOR roles as Trustee and Membership Committee Chair.
Sam Parris brings more than 20 years of experience across refrigeration wholesale, sales, marketing, procurement, project management, operations and design in retail, commercial and industrial sectors. Her IOR involvement includes chairing the Membership Elections Committee and contributing to several other committees covering policy, membership and industry events.
Steve Gill previously served as IOR President from 2014 to 2016. His activities include mentoring, judging industry awards, participating in the IOR Women in RACHP Committee and leading initiatives such as World Refrigeration Day. Following the presidential handover, Gill chaired a debate with current and former apprentices focused on industry skills and encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pumps.