White succeeds Mullarkey as chief executive at the NSI

Former Air Vice-Marshal Andrew White CB has been appointed chief executive of the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) in the wake of former supremo Tom Mullarkey’s recent – and some would say ‘shock’ – departure for pastures new at RoSPA (‘Mullarkey leaves NSI for chief executive position at RoSPA’, News Update, SMT, May 2006, p7).

White joins the not-for-profit approvals body (which has now inspected and approved over 1,000 fire and security companies operating out of more than 1,500 separate locations) following a distinguished career in the Royal Air Force, where he served for 32 years.

Most recently, White – who boasts an Honours degree in engineering – was commander of Number 3 Group with responsibility for 12,000 servicemen and women.

Speaking to SMT about his appointment, Andrew White commented: “I’m pleased to be joining an organisation that’s acknowledged for promoting the highest standards without compromise. This is an exciting challenge for me, and I’m relishing the opportunity to drive forward the excellent work that has already been carried out by the Inspectorate. We need to build on the NSI’s recognised strengths as an inspection and approvals body.”

White continued: “The professionalism and commitment of the people within the organisation is outstanding, and I’m very much looking forward to leading a dedicated team of experts that provide the quality foundations underpinning both the security and fire sectors.”

NSI chairman Sir Michael Bett added: “We are delighted to welcome Andrew White to the NSI at a time when both the security and fire protection sectors are experiencing significant change. The NSI has now established itself as a strong and leading brand with prominent recognition as the mark of quality and credibility.

“Andrew’s wealth of experience will benefit the organisation as he leads it forward in the interests of maintaining and enhancing high standards that will assist greatly in safeguarding its client base.”