She takes over on October 4 from Rob Oliver, who will retire from the position after completing 20-years’ service to the UK trade association as its first chief executive.
The CEA board conducted a candidate search which attracted more than 50 applications from trade association professionals. Johal joins the CEA from the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE), where she was director of commercial development.
She was responsible for the commercial strategy of the organisation, including new initiatives to drive membership growth and ensure value for money for existing members. In her role as head of research, education, and training, she was responsible for developing and implementing a research, education, and training strategy as part of the senior leadership team.
Chair of the CEA’s executive board Paul Ross welcomed the appointment. He said: “The recent year has been challenging for the entire industry but as we head out of the pandemic and look towards the future I feel very excited about the numerous opportunities and changes that are taking place.
"The appointment of Suneeta as chief executive is a significant move and I feel that her experience and capabilities will be key assets in strengthening and developing the CEA for the future. It is important that the association continues to truly reflect the wishes of all its members and one of her key actions will be to reflect this as part of the ongoing strategy.”
He added: “Whilst announcing that Suneeta is our new chief executive I must acknowledge all the efforts and dedication of Rob Oliver, our long-serving chief executive, who has led the CEA over the last two decades and has passionately supported and championed the industry and the needs of all our members. A huge thank you to Rob on behalf of all our members!”
Suneeta Johal expressed her excitement about her new role, stating: “It has been a tough 18 months for many trade associations and as we move forward, I hope that my skills and experience can bring a fresh approach to develop the future strategy of the CEA. I am looking forward to building on the successes that Rob has achieved to take the CEA from strength to strength.”
Oliver commented on his departure: “The original plan was that I should step down a year or so ago, but Covid-19 struck and I agreed to stay a little longer. Now the time seems right to step aside and let Suneeta bring a fresh, and younger, approach to what is undoubtedly a great job to have.
"I am pleased that on my watch we were able to grow our membership and international activities and create the Plantworx construction exhibition. More recently, my idea of introducing an emissions compliance verification option to the CESAR scheme is proving to be a winner.”
