At Robert Lickley Refractories, we’re continuing to build the right team to support our growth and strengthen the foundations of the business. That’s why we’re delighted to welcome Iain Millar as our new QHSE Manager.
Iain brings extensive experience in developing quality, health, safety, and environmental systems across manufacturing businesses, often during times of significant change. What stood out to us is his practical, people-focused approach — creating systems that don’t just tick compliance boxes but actually work in the real world.
Why Robert Lickley Refractories?
When asked what attracted him to the role, Iain’s answer was clear: “The challenge, and the opportunity to be part of the journey in the future of the business.”
He sees his role not as an isolated function, but as a way of making a real difference across the whole organisation:
“What excites me most is the chance to make a tangible impact at all levels. I want to build systems that are not just compliant, but effective and meaningful. For me, it’s about leading by example, engaging with teams on the ground, and strengthening a culture where safety, quality, and sustainability are second nature, not an afterthought.”
Iain will also be taking ownership of our ISO portfolio, targeting certification to ISO 14001 and ISO 45001. For him, this is about embedding standards in a way that supports the company’s long-term strategy, not just adding paperwork.
A Practical Approach to QHSE
Iain’s philosophy centres on integration and engagement. He believes that QHSE standards should feel relevant to people’s daily work, not imposed from above.
“My approach is to align systems with business goals and daily operations, making them practical and relevant rather than simply regulatory requirements. People need to see how QHSE standards protect them and improve their work. That means clear communication, education, and encouraging open dialogue so that everyone feels involved and empowered.”
He sees continuous improvement as essential — using data, audits, and honest conversations to keep systems evolving. Importantly, he stresses that compliance is just the baseline: “Maintaining certification is important, but my aim is to go beyond that — to create a culture of shared responsibility where quality, safety, and sustainability are naturally part of how the business operates.”
What Does a Strong Safety Culture Look Like?
For Iain, safety is about more than rules and inductions:
“A strong safety culture is one where safety isn’t just a policy, but a shared value. Leadership has to set the tone, but equally, everyone needs to feel responsible for maintaining a safe environment, regardless of their role.”
He believes in empowering staff to speak up: “People should feel comfortable raising concerns or even stopping work if something doesn’t feel right, without fear of blame. When conversations about risks and incidents focus on learning rather than punishment, that’s when real improvement happens.”
His first step here will be listening: learning what’s already working well, identifying areas for improvement, and involving people at every level in safety discussions.
Achievements Under Pressure
Iain’s career includes a standout achievement during a crisis that would test any organisation’s resilience. In 2021, his former employer suffered a serious cyber-attack that shut down operations completely. Hackers demanded a $1 million ransom, but instead of paying, the company scrapped compromised systems and started again — relying temporarily on handwritten processes and pay-as-you-go phones.
In that environment, Iain rebuilt the ISO management systems to certifiable level in just a few months, ensuring continued certification. Within 18 months, he had expanded that success to a second site, integrating both into a single management system covering five ISO certifications.
“It was one of the most challenging experiences of my career — new people, new expectations, and constant scrutiny from both colleagues and certification bodies. But it proved what can be achieved with focus, collaboration, and resilience.”
Life Outside Work
Away from QHSE, Iain leads a full life that balances family, sport, and a touch of humour. Weekends are often centred around his daughter, Bonnie: “She’s nearly 11 going on 16 — my world, but also my biggest challenge when it comes to getting slime off the carpets or persuading her to eat something other than pizza and garlic bread!”
On his non-Bonnie weekends, he enjoys golf, catching up with friends, and the occasional drink at The Loch Inn — his own garden pub. A proud Scot, with roots in both Glasgow and Perth, he supports Rangers and the Scotland national football team (even if that sometimes tests his patience more than his resilience at work).
Looking Ahead
We’re excited to see the impact Iain will have at Robert Lickley Refractories. His mix of hands-on experience, resilience under pressure, and genuine commitment to building a strong culture will play a key role in our future.
You can reach Iain at Iain.millar@robertlickley.co.uk