Frank Bertie Retires as NAPIT Managing Director

  Posted by: user_amy      1st July 2026

Frank Bertie retires as Managing Director at NAPIT. Frank served as Managing Director for two years, following over 32 years as Technical Director.

Frank has played a pivotal role in shaping technical excellence at NAPIT, supporting NAPIT members, and helping to raise standards across the industry. From his early days as an apprentice and installer to his later work in inspection, testing, and regulation, NAPIT reflect on Frank’s outstanding contribution to the industry and organisation over the years.

Frank’s career journey started with a moment of curiosity that would shape his entire future. At just 14 years old, watching electricians rewire his family home sparked a fascination that never left him.

“I was so intrigued by what they were doing and how it all worked,” Frank recalled. That early interest led him to study Electrical and Electronics at a local technical college, where he was offered an apprenticeship with a small local firm, setting him firmly on his path.

Beginning his career working to the 14th edition of the wiring regulations, the idea that he would later contribute to the 18th edition seemed unlikely. “Back then, I never imagined I’d be involved in creating the 18th edition,” he said. Yet, that journey reflects not only the evolution of the industry, but also Frank’s unwavering commitment to developing alongside it.

“What started as an interest turned into a career focused on improving safety and raising standards,” he reflects.

Among his many accomplishments, Frank is most proud of his role in strengthening electrical safety, particularly when it comes to safe isolation. For him, this has always been more than just procedure; it is a critical safeguard that protects lives.

“For too long, a casual approach to safe isolation has had deadly consequences,” he explained. His work has helped reinforce the importance of proper processes, ensuring that safety is never compromised through complacency.

A central theme throughout Frank’s career has been raising standards, both technically and professionally. He has been a strong advocate for continuous development, recognising that the industry cannot stand still.

As he puts it, “the biggest shift has been the need to develop knowledge to confirm competence, not just hold a qualification.”

A defining chapter in Frank’s career came with his involvement in the founding and development of NAPIT. Through his work, Frank has supported members with the technical guidance needed to carry out their work safely and effectively.

Reflecting on this contribution, he said, “hopefully I’ve helped reinforce the importance of high technical standards and doing the job safely.”

Yet, when asked what has meant the most to him during his time at NAPIT, Frank’s answer is simple: the people. “It’s been a pleasure working at NAPIT – the staff are a great bunch who are always willing to help each other,” he shared.

That sense of collaboration and shared purpose has been a defining characteristic of his experience. In his view, it is precisely this spirit that makes the organisation stand out. “NAPIT is all about the people,” he adds, highlighting the way teams come together across different areas to deliver for members and support each other.

Frank will continue his long and proud relationship with NAPIT and still share his extensive technical knowledge supporting the organisation in a consultative role.

Stephen Melton has now stepped up from Commercial and Compliance Director into the role of Managing Director, bringing a strong track record of leadership and having overseen rapid growth since joining NAPIT in 2019.

Stephen said: “On behalf of everyone at NAPIT, I would like to thank Frank for his outstanding contribution to the organisation over the past 34 years. During that time, Frank has played a pivotal role in shaping our technical excellence, supporting our members, and helping to raise standards across the industry. Most recently, he has stepped up to lead the organisation as Managing Director for the last two years.

“While Frank is stepping away from his full-time role, we are delighted that he will continue his long association with NAPIT in a consultative capacity, sharing the extensive technical knowledge and expertise that have been invaluable to the organisation for so many years.

“Personally, I would like to thank Frank for his support during the leadership transition and for the strong foundation he leaves behind.

“I am honoured to take on the role of Managing Director and look forward to working with NAPIT staff and industry partners as we continue to build on our growth and success.

“Frank, thank you for everything you have done for NAPIT. We wish you a long, healthy, and enjoyable retirement.”