Richard Soper

As Managing Director of Unico System UK, Richard brings over three decades of leadership experience in the heating, ventilation, and renewable energy sectors. Alongside international board-level roles, he was MD and CEO of Bosch Thermotechnology (including Worcester Bosch) and has dedicated his career to driving innovation, raising industry standards, and advocating for sustainable, long-term solutions in building technologies.

Throughout his career, Richard has received several industry honours, including the British Renewable Energy Association’s Champions Award in 2008 and the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association’s Ambassador Award in 2015. In 2012, he was also awarded a CBE in The Queen’s Birthday Honours List for services to the heating and renewable technologies industries.

Richard is proud to hold the prestigious position of a Past President of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE). He now serves as its Director of Development, focusing on strengthening industry collaboration, championing apprenticeships, retraining initiatives, and supporting best practice across the supply chain. 

He is also a Trustee of Worcester Community Trust and serve as Governor of Regency High School, continuing a lifelong commitment to education and community impact.

Richard is passionate about helping both young people and career changers into the industry. He believes in fair, accessible, and high-quality outcomes for consumers, and ensuring the critical role the industry plays in protecting public health, especially for the elderly and vulnerable, is widely recognised and respected.