The CEA (Construction Equipment Association) has announced the appointment of Phil Battle, Divisional Director Volvo CE – Product & Services at SMT GB, to its Board. Phil was unanimously elected by the Board, strengthening dealer and distributor representation within the Association.
Phil will take on the portfolio of ESG and Environmental Sustainability, reflecting his professional expertise and commitment to supporting the sector’s transition to a low-carbon future.
He brings over 20 years of leadership experience in the construction equipment industry, with a strong track record of growth, transformation, and sustainability. At SMT GB, he leads a national team across nine customer support centres. He is responsible for all commercial sales and service operations throughout Great Britain for Volvo CE products and services. His career has also included senior leadership positions at SMT GB and Finning, in both the UK and Canada, where he managed high-value operations and built strategic partnerships.
Alongside his industry career, Phil is pursuing an MBA in Innovation, Enterprise & Circular Economy at the University of Bradford. He also serves as Chair of the Independent Remuneration Panel for North Yorkshire County Council.
Commenting on his appointment, Phil said:
“I am delighted to be joining the CEA Board and to have the opportunity to work more closely with the Association and its members. The CEA has made significant progress in recent years – becoming more engaged, relevant, and ambitious in its support of the industry. I’m particularly pleased to take on the ESG and Sustainability portfolio, which is such a critical focus for our sector’s future. I look forward to contributing my experience from the dealer and distributor side, and to helping the CEA continue this positive momentum.”
CEA Chief Executive, Viki Bell, added:
“We are very pleased to welcome Phil to the CEA Board. His appointment brings an important dealer and distributor perspective, and his enthusiasm for the work we are doing as an Association is hugely encouraging. Phil has already been vocal in his recognition of the progress the CEA has made in recent years, and his insight on sustainability and transformation will add real strength to the Board as we continue to grow and evolve.”
Phil’s appointment follows the departure of Mark Ormond, who stepped down from the Board earlier this year after moving from Manitou to Avtron Power. Together, these changes reflect the CEA’s commitment to refreshing and broadening its leadership while maintaining continuity, ensuring the Board reflects the breadth and depth of the industry it represents.