Meet the Judges

  • Jerry Whiteley - CIPHE

    Jerry, Technical Manager at CIPHE, plays a vital role in supporting the plumbing and heating sector with expert technical advice and guidance. He works closely with colleges and training providers, keeping them up to date with the latest developments in this fast-evolving industry. With a strong background in both teaching and installation, as well as experience running his own business, Jerry brings a wealth of practical knowledge. His deep understanding of regulatory compliance helps professionals navigate everyday challenges.

  • Jonathan Samuel - WaterSafe

    Jonathan joined Water Regs UK in 2025 after leading the Gas Safe Register as Chief Executive for 10 years. He is a Chartered Manager with 38 years’ experience, principally within in the Gas, Energy and Utilities sector. Jonathan began his career as a Gas Service Engineer in the mid 80’s and later joined CORGI as a Field Inspector, progressing his career to senior leadership roles thereafter. Jonathan holds a Master of Science degree, in Leadership and Management with Distinction at the University of South Wales.

  • Jason Clark - CIPHE President

    Jason Clark, President of the CIPHE, is a Master Plumber, Engineering Technician, and Fellow of the CIPHE with nearly 40 years of experience in the plumbing and heating engineering industry. A respected and influential figure, Jason chairs the Plumbing Employer Trailblazer Group and serves on the CIPHE Disciplinary Committee, supporting apprenticeships and upholding professional standards across the sector. His dedication to the industry has earned him numerous honours, including the prestigious Master Plumber award at Merchant Taylors’ Hall, the Freedom of the City of London, and his role as a Liveryman and Court Assistant Elect of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers.

  • Joe Thompson - Polypipe

    As the Technical Training Manager at awards’ sponsor Polypipe Building Products, Joe brings over 25 years of experience in the plumbing and heating industry. Having spent 16 of those years running a successful plumbing and heating business in Lincolnshire, he combines hands on expertise with a passion for developing technical talent. Joe is dedicated to sharing knowledge and raising standards across the sector.

  • Huw Jenkins

    Huw, of Thornhill Plumbing and Heating, is a multiple-time regional winner of the Heating Installer Awards. Known for his high standards and commitment to quality, he is also passionate about mentoring the next generation, passing on the knowledge he gained from his own mentors. Huw has played a key role in shaping the entrant criteria for The Plumbing Awards, where his expertise and exacting standards are clearly reflected.

  • Pointy (Robert Clarke)

    Known across the industry as Pointy Plumber, Robert is a Gas Safe–registered engineer and member of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE). With over 12 years’ experience in domestic plumbing, heating and gas systems, he is the founder of Installer Social (formerly Plumber Social), the networking event at InstallerSHOW that connects installers, manufacturers and trade professionals from across the UK. A Kingsbridge Insurance ambassador and respected voice within the trade community, Pointy has also supported other industry awards, including PolyPlumb’s new ambassador judging. He continues to work closely with leading industry brands, hosting and presenting live trade events across the UK. His technical insight, credibility and community focus make him a valuable member of The Plumber Awards judging panel.

  • Grant Gundelfinger

    Grant, of Mayfly Group Ltd, retrained as a plumber in 2008 and achieved his gas qualification shortly afterwards. He then developed his skillset over a number of years before founding Mayfly Group in 2018. Since then, Grant has continued to excel in his career and was crowned the Yorkshire Regional Winner of The Heating Installer Awards in 2019, 2020 and 2021, and the National Heating Installer Awards winner 2021. With such an impressive list of accolades, it was only natural for Grant to be invited to judge The Plumber Awards, where his expertise and industry insight could be put to use.