ANNOUNCEMENT: Lord Empey, Kt, OBE appointed Honorary Vice President of UPECC
We are honoured to announce that Lord Reg Empey, Kt, OBE has accepted the position of Honorary Vice President of the Union of Pilots, Engineers and Cabin Crew.
Lord Empey brings to UPECC a wealth of governance, economic, and civic leadership experience developed over more than four decades of senior public service. Having served as Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Investment and later as Minister for Employment & Learning, he has directed major policies to strengthen investment, skills, and growth. He also briefly held office as Acting First Minister of Northern Ireland, demonstrating his ability to lead in complex and challenging circumstances.
A life peer since 2011, Lord Empey has combined his role in the House of Lords with a career shaped by negotiation and consensus-building. Twice elected Lord Mayor of Belfast, he was closely engaged in the cross-community dialogues that underpinned the Good Friday Agreement. His contribution was recognised through the award of an OBE in 1989 and his knighthood in 1999.
James O’Brien from the Directorate of UPECC said:
“Lord Empey’s breadth of leadership experience and his longstanding record of constructive engagement bring invaluable perspective to our work. His involvement will ensure UPECC continues to develop with strong governance and a focus on the long-term prosperity of those working across aviation.”
Lord Empey said:“I am pleased to support UPECC in this new role. Aviation is a sector of strategic importance, and the people who work within it deserve a strong voice for their future. I look forward to working with the Directorate in ensuring the Union can provide meaningful representation and contribute to the wider debate on resilience, skills, and growth.”
