The Stone Federation has announced its new Stone Federation president (2024-2026) as Adrian Attwood, executive director of Stone Federation member, DBR Limited. Attwood succeeds former president, Chris Kelsey.
A handover took place at the Stone Federation Members’ Event and AGM which was hosted at The Building Society in London in August. An accredited conservator with more than 30 years of experience in historic building conservation, Attwood has led restoration projects on some of the UK’s major landmarks, including the Parliamentary Estate.
He named ‘collaboration’ as the theme of his presidential term, pledging to champion the talent, skill, and expertise of those working in the stone industry. “Our strategy is to elevate the exceptional talent within our sector while nurturing the next generation of craftspeople, through the Stone Federation’s extensive network. After all, a unified voice is a powerful voice.
"Sustainability, ethical sourcing, and carbon measurement are also top priorities for me. I’m committed to helping the Federation amplify these vital messages, promoting natural stone as a responsible and sustainable choice for both environmental wellbeing and high-quality construction," he said.
Throughout his career, Attwood has been passionate in his support for widening access to heritage crafts and was instrumental in the establishment of the QEST DBR scholarship.
He added: “Our industry is at a crossroads, facing a critical skills shortage. Now, more than ever, we need to champion the practitioners who are the backbone of our craft. My focus will be on advocating for the development and recognition of expertise within the stone industry, ensuring that we not only preserve our cultural heritage but also foster the next generation of stonemasons and technicians who will carry it forward. I look forward to using the platform that the Stone Federation presidency will give me to collaborate with people within our sector and beyond to help put craft skills in the spotlight.”
In his speech to members at the Members' Event and AGM, Adrian thanked Chris Kelsey, the outgoing president, for his steadfast commitment to the Federation and all he had done during his term of office to promote the Federation and support the membership.
Stone Federation's chief executive, Jane Buxey, welcomed Attwood and said: "I would like to thank Chris for all that he has achieved for the Federation over his time as president. From the launch of The Stone Academy to the growth and strengthening of the Interiors & Surface Materials Focus Group, Chris' legacy will be felt for many years to come. I look forward to working alongside Adrian and seeing how his expertise and passion for the industry, and in particular the promotion of the craft of stonemasonry and use of the material as a sustainable solution will benefit the Federation and our members."