The Association for Project Safety (APS) has announced the appointment of Sofie Hooper as CEO, ahead of its annual conference today (9 September).
Hooper has worked alongside outgoing CEO Andrew Leslie since April 2025, joining APS from the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), and brings extensive experience in policy, strategy development, stakeholder engagement and building safety reform, alongside a deep understanding of the organisation, its members and its strategic objectives.
Her appointment comes as APS and the wider construction sector continues to adapt to evolving regulatory requirements and increasing expectations around competence, capability and building safety management. She will lead the delivery of APS’s strategic vision, supporting members while continuing to strengthen the association’s influence in shaping policy, standards and professional practice throughout the UK.
APS president Mark Snelling said: “The APS board is delighted to appoint Sofie as CEO. She has already made a significant contribution to APS, helping to drive our strategic direction and strengthen relationships across industry, Government, and the wider professional community.
“Her leadership, vision and understanding of the challenges facing the sector will be invaluable as APS continues to develop services, standards, and support for members during a period of profound change in building safety and construction regulation.”
‘A vital role to play’
Hooper said: “I am honoured to be appointed CEO of APS and to continue the important work of supporting our members and advancing professional excellence across the built environment.
“The construction and building safety landscape is evolving rapidly, creating both challenges and opportunities. APS has a vital role to play in helping individuals and organisations navigate these changes, develop competence, and deliver safer outcomes for the people who design, build, manage and occupy our buildings. I am excited about the future of APS and look forward to building on the strong foundations already in place to ensure the association continues to lead, innovate and grow.”
The association thanked Andrew Leslie, who is retiring after six years with APS, for his work in delivering to members messaging and advice in the post Grenfell aftermath in relation to the Building Safety Act, Building Regulations across the UK and competence schemes.
Professor Sam Allwinke, independent chair of the APS board said: “I would like to thank Andrew for his major contributions to the profession and discipline of safety and his achievements in raising the profile and position of APS and his leading work in standard setting in the various regulatory jurisdictions. Going forward APS will build upon his legacy and wish him a healthy and long retirement.”
