Most recently Parry was the chair of the irtec Steering Group, a co-opted Society board member. He has been a major influence on the Society’s industry-standard irtec initiative by instigating its relaunch in 2011, giving technicians recognition for their capabilities and changing the face of vehicle maintenance.
Mick Sweetmore, Society President, said: “John always held a common-sense, theoretical approach to his profession and was always available for help and advice for anyone who asked. He was instrumental in the success of irtec and was heavily involved in the steering group even in his retirement.
“John was one of the leading figures in road transport and was very well known, highly respected and an instantly recognisable, well-humoured man who will be sadly missed,” said Sweetmore.
Parry enjoyed a long and distinguished career in road transport. From 1985-2006 he was the engineering director of Exel and Exel Logistics, one of the biggest fleets in the UK with 8,000 vehicles and 12,000 trailers. In 2004, Parry started JSP Consulting to work for clients on transport legislation, conformance and compliance.
Chris Grime, chair of IRTE Services Ltd, said: “I have worked with John over many years developing irtec, the IRTE technician accreditation, and I will personally very much miss his friendship, support and contribution. John’s passion to make irtec the industry standard and make a positive contribution to road safety was evident throughout. Without his relentless determination, irtec would not be the huge success it has become.”