January 2026
The Director of the New Zealand Leather and Shoe Research Association has been appointed to head the international association of leather chemists (LASRA)
The International Union of Leather Technologists and Chemists Societies (IULTCS) has appointed Geoff Holmes as its new President for the two-year period 2026–2027. Holmes has worked for over twenty years at the New Zealand Leather and Shoe Research Association (LASRA), the New Zealand leather and footwear research association, where he is currently Director.
In his inaugural message, the new President of the international body, which brings together around 3,000 chemists and leather researchers from 25 different national associations, described the role as an honor and a great responsibility, reiterating the central role of national associations in ensuring the strength and credibility of the IULTCS globally. According to Holmes, training, scientific research, publications, communication, and promotion of the tanning industry remain the pillars of the Union’s activity.
Holmes thanked outgoing President Dr. Joan Carles Castell for his contribution, particularly in the field of ISO and CEN standardization, and welcomed new Vice President Dr. Giancarlo Lovato. Looking ahead, Geoff emphasized the importance of open and scientifically rigorous debate to maintain the IULTCS as an authoritative and forward-looking voice.
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