IAT appoint new President

13 June, 2025

New IAT President Dr Helen Bailey with IQ Chair Ben Uphill

First published in the June 2025 issue of Quarry Management

Dr Helen Bailey was appointed President of the Institute of Asphalt Technology, during the IAT National Conference

Leader of the Asphalt Programmes at the University of Derby’s (UoD) Centre for Mineral Products, and founder and director of consulting practice The Driven Company Associates Ltd, Dr Helen Bailey was appointed President of the Institute of Asphalt Technology (IAT) during a presentation at last month’s IAT National Conference (14–15 May).

Helen, who is also deputy chair of the Institute of Quarrying, was elected by peers for the role on account of her extensive experience in the mineral products sector, her research, and her reputation as a ‘change agent’ during this important time for the industry.

The handover presentation from previous President Gearóid Lohan took place at the IAT National conference, trade exhibition and workshop event held at DeVere Tortworth Court, near Bristol, an event which has become renowned for exploring cutting-edge innovations, sustainability solutions, and the future of asphalt technology.

A passionate ambassador

Throughout her career, Helen has been associated with sparking change, driving continuous improvement, addressing evolving global challenges, and supporting the next generation. She sees the key themes of her presidency revolving around Community, Curiosity, and Collaboration, with the ambition for her tenure to develop a stronger, more connected and forward-thinking IAT.

Her aims will involve aligning the Institute of Asphalt Technology’s strategies to the UN Sustainability Goals – in parallel to leading commercial companies. She will proactively move forward essential change, serving as more than simply a figurehead within the role, but as an engaged enabler with a passion to participate and steer evident collaboration.

Helen’s appointment ties in with the IAT’s announcement that its registered address will officially become the National Stone Centre (NSC) in Wirksworth, Derbyshire, formally creating an accessible home and long-term educational investment for the industry and its future generations.

Journey to presidency

Dr Helen Bailey started her career in the mineral products industry in 2007. Within months, she joined the Institute of Asphalt Technology. By 2009 she had become a member of the East Midlands committee and, intent on making a difference, became branch chair in 2016. In the same year, she joined the IAT Council where she has held a seat ever since. Her various roles during that time have included honorary treasurer and vice-president. ‘I find one of the best ways to make a difference is to physically do it,’ Helen says. ‘I try to lead by example, draw on lived experience, and have purpose and focus on being service driven. In doing so you learn more about yourself, develop resilience, and are better equipped to serve those who matter, our membership. As an Institute, I am keen for us to move forward without losing sight of who we are or where we came from.’

Strengthening industry and cross-sector partnerships

‘It’s my privilege to receive the reins from Gearóid, whose dedication and commitment to the role over the past two years has been significant and greatly valued,’ Helen says. ‘I’m incredibly proud and honoured to take on the presidency during a defining moment, as our industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, shaped by new technologies and materials, digital innovations, sustainability challenges, and shifting infrastructure demands.

‘By performing as a community, not just an institute, that’s curious and collaborative, every member – whether a student just entering the field or a senior professional with decades of knowledge – can experience a sense of belonging and purpose in a ‘home’ that’s resilient, supportive, and thrives on shared interest and expertise.

‘Investment in technical knowledge-sharing and training initiatives will be key to increasing interest and retention in our sector, along with the co-creation of more opportunities for members to engage with cutting-edge research. Working together we can encourage fresh thinking by promoting interdisciplinary learning from other industries, and in doing so IAT and its members will not only respond to change, but lead it.’

Shared interests and values

‘My roles with the University of Derby’s Centre for Mineral Products and the Institute of Quarrying are pivotal to the collaborative successes my presidency has the scope to realize,’ Helen says. ‘IAT has a long-standing relationship with IQ, and the partnerships the Institutes have with UoD is a jewel in the educational crown for both organizations. Over decades we’ve grown together and now more than ever see the need and opportunity to progress as allied Institutes working collaboratively to create and share success. Only collectively will we be able to rise to the industry’s challenges, many of which our individual organizations share. We need to collectively recognize that we cannot solve a problem with the same minds that created it; however, by retaining our own identities, whilst drawing on our collective communities’ passion and capabilities, we can create value in partnership and together solve issues using fresh thinking. I am delighted to have been appointed President and want all members to feel as though they belong to the Institute’s community and emerging new culture as I serve and represent its membership for the next two years.’

Commenting on behalf of IAT, executive director Sandy Sykes said: ‘Dr Helen Bailey’s appointment as President of the IAT marks an exciting new chapter for our organization. Helen’s passion, strategic vision and proven ability to connect people and ideas make her uniquely placed to lead the Institute during a time of transformation in our industry. Her focus on community, curiosity and collaboration resonates deeply with the values we share, and her commitment to sustainable progress and knowledge sharing will be instrumental in shaping a more resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking IAT. We’re proud to have Helen at the helm and look forward to supporting her as she leads us into this next stage of growth and innovation.’

Commenting on behalf of IQ, Chair Ben Uphill said: ‘I sincerely congratulate Helen on her new post. She thoroughly deserves the position and is the ideal candidate for this pivotal role. Helen’s background, ethos, and ambition support the diverse, forward-thinking approach our industry and IAT align with, and I feel her influence and actions will be of tremendous benefit as we continue to evolve.

‘As IQ works more closely with IAT, and both organizations make the National Stone Centre their home, we anticipate the new opportunities we’ll have to work more collaboratively, whilst retaining our individual identities. Both organizations have the passion and drive to expand our working ecosystem, increasing the capabilities and knowledge with which to address our industry challenges, such as our human capital, the environment, and government agenda. Importantly too, this affiliation will further strengthen our collective ability to support our members and the wider industry, so we can grow and succeed together.’

For further information, email: sandy.sykes@instituteofasphalt.org; or to find out more about IAT membership, visit: www.instituteofasphalt.org