WORKING GROUPS
As a Chairman of one of PITA's four Working Groups, which have always been the lifeblood of the Association, providing a forum for members to share experiences and know how across a broad range of topics with their peers. In the past the groups were responsible for organising many of the events that became the hallmark of a vibrant association. Inevitably, as the structure of the UK industry changed and members found it more difficult to justify time away from the mill, the working groups suffered.
At last year's PITA Meet (at Overton Mill), the working groups were discussed at length and it was agreed that the structure should change to reflect the organisation in many mills.
The four new groups will mirror the key areas of activity as follows:
Raw Materials, Chemicals & Stock Preparation (Chairman: Mark Smith/Omya)
Papermaking & Engineering (Chairman: John Middleton/Invista)
Energy, Environment & Services (Chairman: Barry Read/PITA)
Finishing, Coating & Converting (Chairman: Peter Nadin/Rolpex)
The new groups will embrace the internet and groups will hold both virtual and real meetings during the course of the year, with all the groups coming together twice a year for the PITA Meet Events in the Summer and Winter. The Chairmen believe that the new groups should be flexible and, where appropriate, join forces as specific issues and needs arise. The groups are open to all PITA Members and are there to assist you fulfil your responsibilities within your company, so it is vital that interested parties play a role in the shaping and initial direction of the groups. Members will be invited to participate in a series of telephone conference calls during March to aid the Working Group Chairmen in arranging the initial meetings. If you are interested in participating in one or more of the new Working Groups, please contact the PITA Office. Barry Read, Chief Executive