Council
Composition of the LIA Council:
The Council includes elected representatives from the LIA Membership, representing the following constituencies:
- Commercial Luminaries
- Domestic Luminaries
- Lighting Components
Every LIA Member Company can propose candidates for election to the LIA Council. Each member has one vote in Council Elections. Candidates should hold senior positions and be capable of making independent decisions.
Term and Election:
Elected members serve a 4-year term and may stand for re-election upon retirement. If a member retires early, their company may propose an alternative candidate, subject to Council approval, to complete the term.
Responsibilities:
Council Members represent their constituencies without bias from their own company positions. They are expected to declare any conflicts of interest.
Catherine Connolly
Peter McVeigh
Chairman & Managing Director of Status International Limited, Independent Company, operating in the U.K. and Europe for many years and has spent his life in Lamps and Lighting gaining worldwide experience at all levels. Having chaired successfully many Committees in Industry, Peter’s experience and commitment is unrivalled.
Started life with the Yorkshire Electricity Board as a Trainee Engineer, before moving to Osram G.E.C. as a Lighting Engineer. Formed first company De la Mer in 1975 which he sold in 1987.
Formed the new and current company in 1991 along with son Nicholas and is now a supplier to all major Retailers and Discounters in the U.K., still very active in the business.
After a lifetime in Lighting was made a Freeman of the City of London in May 2013.
Also Master and Trustee of the Worshipful Company of Lightmongers. Served as Almoner for 8 years.
Peter and Status International is the main sponsor for the Chartered Trading Standards Institute annual conference and awards dinner and has been for more than 25 years.
Vice President of the C.T.S.I.
Ayça Donaghy
Ayça Donaghy is a dynamic leader in the lighting industry, currently serving as the CEO of the Lighting Industry Association. With over 15 years of experience in the broader electro-technical sector, coupled with a recent Executive MBA from London Business School, Ayça combines strategic thinking, team management, and a dedication to sustainability, diversity, and innovation. Her diverse background in sales leadership, teaching, and acting contributes to her strong communication and presentation skills, making her an ideal spokesperson for the industry.
Since assuming her role over a year ago, Ayça has spearheaded a series of groundbreaking initiatives, including university competitions aimed at bridging the skills gap and launching events and webinars to enhance awareness of critical issues like sustainability, compliance, and competence. Furthermore, she has been instrumental in advocating for comprehensive and enforceable regulations. Through direct engagement with industry stakeholders and the UK government, Ayça has played a crucial role in propelling the industry's mission and amplifying its voice on a national level.
Her impact and foresight have recently been acknowledged by her selection for the '40under40' competition.
- Email:
- [email protected]
- LinkedIn:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayca-donaghy/
Andrew Nixon
As Design Director of one the largest OEM manufacturers of commercial lighting products in the UK, I have a passion for lighting and a desire to continually improve the image and understanding of lighting both inside and outside the industry. I work with many other members of the LIA daily, and understanding their individual requirements is a large part of my role.
After graduating from Coventry University with a BSc in Industrial Product Design, I began my professional career at Dyson Appliances in 1999. After working on projects in Europe, Asia and the USA, I returned to Yorkshire to join long standing LIA members Martech UK Ltd in 2007. I have served on Council since 2016.
The Lighting industry faces an ever-changing landscape of new legislation, and environmental challenges. Like many other LIA members, we are proud to be a family owned, UK based business employing local people and using local suppliers where possible. As a member of the council, I can provide a voice to the hundreds of SMEs like us who need the support that the association can give, to ensure we don’t get left behind.
Emily Butterill
I founded Glow Lighting in 2015, with over 25 years of experience in the lighting industry. My background covers a wide range of sectors, including commercial, industrial, and decorative lighting, giving me a comprehensive understanding of the field. I am deeply passionate about British manufacturing and committed to preserving the skills that exist within the UK. This motivation ensures that our work not only contributes to the industry but also supports the continuation of high-quality craftsmanship within our country.
My vision for the future of the lighting industry is focussed on sustainability, innovation, and customer engagement; whilst consistently upholding the highest standards of quality and compliance.
I am delighted to have been elected to the council in 2024 and am excited to be representing the small company members. Additionally, I am eager to increase the visibility and influence of decorative lighting members within The LIA.
Co-opted Council Members
Melissa Duckett
Mel Duckett is the Finance & HR Manager and Company Secretary at The LIA, where she has worked for the past nine years. Since November 2021, she has overseen the organisation’s financial operations, managed HR responsibilities, and handled Health and Safety duties. Her thorough approach keeps essential functions running smoothly, enhancing efficiency and compliance within The LIA.
With great attention to detail and a strategic mindset, Mel has significantly contributed to the organisation’s financial growth and operational excellence. Her commitment to a safe and supportive work environment highlights her multifaceted contributions to The LIA.
Outside of work, Mel is an avid gardener. She enjoys spending her free time tending to her allotment, where she grows a variety of plants and vegetables. Gardening provides her with a peaceful retreat and a creative outlet, balancing the analytical demands of her career.
- Email:
- [email protected]
- LinkedIn:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-duckett-191905192/
Andy Hughes
Andy Hughes started his career with Thorn Lighting Ltd. in 1978 and since 2010 has been Standards and Regulations Manager to the Zumtobel Group, the parent company of Thorn Lighting since 2000. In IEC, Andy has been a UK nominated expert to many of the committees and working groups of TC34 (Lighting) since 1990, alongside his work in the mirroring committees of BSI and CENELEC. From 2010 to 2019 Andy was the Chair of SC34D (Luminaires) and was Convenor of the SC34D Working Group LUMEX (WG1) from 2008 to 2024. Outside of IEC, Andy has been Chair of the Lighting Industry Association Technical Board since 2012 and also represents his company within the European trade association LightingEurope.
