DHF announces new appointments and the expansion of its workforce

Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has announced a number of new appointments as the trade association continues to strengthen its team and support for members across the industry.

As part of the changes, Kay Scattergood, becomes PA to General Manager & Secretary, Michael Skelding.  Following many years of dedicated service, Kay Scattergood has chosen to reduce her working hours and workload, transitioning into a new role within the organisation and remains a highly valued member of the DHF team.  

Kay has been with DHF for more than 38 years, progressing from Senior Secretary to Manager of the Administration Team and will continue to bring her extensive knowledge and experience to support the organisation.

Joining the organisation in April 2026 is Annie McKay as Office Manager, a newly created role for DHF.   Annie is responsible for overseeing all office operations and the day-to-day running of the organisation’s administrative functions, including IT, HR, and the management of DHF’s externally recognised certifications such as ISO 9001 and Cyber Essentials.  She brings seven years of office management experience across a variety of sectors, where she has overseen daily operations and supported large teams.  Annie now manages the administration team at DHF and helps ensure the smooth running of the organisation.

DHF has also welcomed Huw Barnett as Senior Training and Compliance Officer.  Huw brings more than 26 years of experience in the door, gate and barrier industry, and his career has included both hands-on operational roles and senior management positions, giving him experience across installation, maintenance, team leadership and operational delivery.  Throughout his career, Huw has represented employers at a range of industry group meetings, contributing to discussions around safety standards, best practice and new technologies.  In his new role, Huw will provide technical expertise to DHF members and deliver training across the sector.

“We are delighted to welcome new team members, Annie and Huw to DHF at an important time for the organisation,” says DHF’s Deputy CEO, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens.  “Both bring considerable experience, professionalism and energy to their roles, and their appointments reflect our continued commitment to supporting members and strengthening the services we provide industry wide.”

DHF has also announced the appointment of two new directors to its board.  Wolfgang Gorner, Managing Director of Hörmann (UK) Ltd, joins the board with decades of experience across the building products, perimeter security, windows and doors sectors.  Wolfgang began his career with RMC Group in 1988 before moving into perimeter security products with B&G Group in 1995.  In 2000, he moved into the windows and doors industry, holding senior positions at REHAU, Epwin and Inwido before joining Hörmann in 2018 to lead its UK operation.  Speaking about his appointment, Wolfgang said he is “passionate about the door, gate and barrier industries and believes DHF plays an important role in promoting high standards and supporting a level playing field across the sector”.

Also joining the board is Ricky Walker, Managing Director of Expert Access Solutions.  Ricky has long supported DHF and been an active voice within the industrial doors sector throughout his career, including during his time as Solutions Director at dormakaba.  He has contributed to a range of DHF activities including product group meetings, apprenticeship discussions and technical committee work focused on helping customers understand legislative requirements and industry standards.  Ricky also brings significant board level and commercial governance experience and is committed to supporting the continued growth and professionalism of the federation.

“All of these appointments represent another positive step forward for DHF”, concludes Patricia.  “Annie, Huw, Wolfgang and Ricky each bring valuable experience and knowledge, and we are pleased to welcome them to the DHF family as we continue to support our members and the wider industry.”

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