At the Derbyshire Branch AGM held on 30th April 2026, members voted in a new Branch Chair. Sarah-Jane Owen has been appointed to the role, taking over from Chris Rowan FIQ following the completion of his term.
The branch committee and membership would like to extend their sincere thanks to Chris for his commitment, hard work and positive leadership over the past two years. His efforts have played an important role in supporting the branch and its continued success.
Reflecting on his time as Chair, Chris said: “It has been an honour and a pleasure to chair the Derbyshire Branch for the last two years. My sincere thanks go to all the committee members who keep this branch alive. Without their energy, hard work and dedication, the branch would not be the success it is today. I have particularly enjoyed working with Sarah-Jane, whose passion for both the Derbyshire Branch and the wider industry will ensure it continues to thrive as she takes on the role of Chair. I wish Sarah-Jane and the committee all the very best.”
Sarah-Jane brings almost nine years’ experience in the quarrying and minerals industry, having followed a non traditional career path. After leaving school, she initially trained in nursing before making the move into quarrying. Her industry career began at Longcliffe Quarries, where she started in contractor control before progressing into the role of Assistant Health and Safety Manager. Keen to further broaden her experience and develop her operational leadership skills, she later moved into quarry management and now works as Section Manager at Ballidon Quarry.
Throughout her career, Sarah-Jane has balanced professional development with raising four children as a single parent. This has given her a firsthand understanding of the challenges many people face when trying to combine work, personal responsibilities and career progression. As a result, she is a strong advocate for development opportunities that are accessible, flexible and relevant, ensuring individuals are supported rather than excluded.
As Chair, Sarah-Jane is passionate about supporting the changing demographic of the industry, particularly younger professionals, apprentices and those entering quarrying via non traditional routes. She is keen to make technical learning more accessible by offering a greater variety of event formats, timings and subject matter that better reflect modern working patterns and evolving career pathways.
At the same time, she firmly believes in the importance of retaining and valuing experienced members. The knowledge, insight and practical expertise they bring are invaluable, and encouraging knowledge sharing and mentoring across generations will be key to supporting both individual development and the long term future of the Derbyshire Branch.
Beyond technical development, Sarah-Jane also places strong emphasis on the social and networking aspects of branch life. She has been actively involved in organising a wide range of events and is particularly proud of her ongoing work supporting the Derbyshire Branch’s annual Charity Dinner Dances. These well supported events bring members together, celebrate the industry and raise money for charitable causes. She is very much looking forward to hosting her first Charity Dinner Dance as Chair this year and welcoming both long standing and new members to what is always a special and enjoyable evening.
Finally, on behalf of the committee, the branch would like to thank everyone who has supported the branch and its programme in the past and looks forward to continued support in the future.