Appointment of New NPTA Chair and Vice Chair
As we head into 2026, the NPTA is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Chair and Vice Chair. These appointments follow the decision of John Davison (Chair) and Paul Burton (Vice Chair) to step aside from their respective roles. We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to both John and Paul for their commitment, leadership, and the significant contribution they have made to the Association.
Below, our new Chair and Vice Chair each introduce themselves and share their background, experience, and ambitions for the role.
Jasmin Emmerson, Chair of the NPTA
I’m delighted to introduce myself as the newly appointed Chair of the National Pest Technicians Association.
It’s a real privilege to step into this role and to represent an association that plays such an important part in supporting pest control professionals across the UK. The NPTA has a long and respected history of championing professionalism, technical excellence, and best practice, and I’m proud to be part of shaping its next chapter.
My journey in this industry began almost 15 years ago when I joined Fotolec Technologies Ltd, a specialist manufacturer of shatterproof lighting solutions, where I progressed from Customer Liaison to Sales Director. In this role I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with pest control professionals and organisations, developing a deep appreciation for the expertise, commitment, and community spirit that define our sector.
As Chair, my focus will be on listening to members and strengthening engagement, ensuring the NPTA continues to deliver high-quality training, trusted technical advice, and a strong, credible voice for our industry. I’m particularly passionate about maintaining and raising professional standards, supporting responsible pest management, and ensuring the association remains accessible and relevant for pest control companies of all sizes.
I’m also thrilled to be working alongside Hugh, our new Vice Chair, and to collaborate closely with the Board and the wider NPTA team. Together, we’re committed to building on the association’s strong foundations, supporting our members, and continuing to strengthen the reputation of our profession.
Thank you for the warm welcome I’ve already received. I’m very much looking forward to the year ahead and to working with members across the UK to ensure the NPTA continues to be a trusted, supportive association for pest control professionals.
Hugh Radford, Vice Chair of the NPTA
I have recently been appointed Vice Chair of the National Pest Technicians Association, and I wanted to take the opportunity to introduce myself properly to members and to the wider industry.
I have worked in pest control for over 35 years and still see myself as a pest controller first and foremost. I trained with Rentokil in the South West, starting out on the tools before moving into supervisory roles where I supported technicians with training, audits, and day to day challenges. Those early years shaped how I view the industry and reinforced the importance of practical, workable solutions.
For the last 28 years I have run Guardian Pest Control, a family business based in Somerset, which I now operate alongside my son. Like many in our industry, I understand the pressures that come with running a small to medium business. Balancing customer expectations, compliance, staff wellbeing, and the realities of site work is something we all deal with on a daily basis.
Over the years I have worked across a wide range of environments, from small local premises to large commercial BRC sites and everything in between. That variety has shown me just how diverse pest control work can be and why decisions made at association level need to reflect real world conditions, not just theory.
Alongside running the business, I have always tried to stay engaged with the wider industry. I regularly talk with clients and fellow pest controllers, have spoken on BBC local radio, and help host the Beauties & Beasties podcast. I believe open conversation and shared experience are vital if we are to keep improving standards and supporting one another as a trade.
As Vice Chairman of the NPTA, my role is to support Jasmin as Chair and the board while helping to make sure the association stays closely connected to its members. At a time when our industry faces increasing regulation, new technology, and changing expectations, I feel it is more important than ever that the voice of working pest controllers remains central to decision making.
Working closely with my son has also given me a valuable insight into how the next generation views pest control. Training, communication, technology, and workplace culture all matter, and I believe the NPTA has a key role to play in making the industry attractive to new entrants while continuing to support long standing members.
My aim in this role is simple. To help keep the NPTA practical, approachable, and firmly grounded in the day to day realities of pest control. I am proud to serve as Vice Chairman and look forward to meeting more members over the coming year and continuing to contribute positively to the association and the wider industry.
Under Jasmin and Hugh’s stewardship, the future of the NPTA looks very positive.