Meet The Team

Greg Palmer

Greg Palmer

Managing Director

Chris Stockbridge

Chris Stockbridge

Engineering Director

Duncan Barrier

Duncan Barrier

Technical Director

Tom Maude

Tom Maude

National Key Account Manager

Luke Crouch

Luke Crouch

Sales Manager

Mike Cox

Mike Cox

Operations Manager

Claire Hobby

Claire Hobby

Finance Manager

Micheal Dixon

Micheal Dixon

Training Manager

Caroline Cotter

Caroline Cotter

Sales & Customer Service Administrator

Penny Stanton

Penny Stanton

Training and Sales Customer Service Administrator

Greg Palmer
Greg Palmer

Managing Director


Greg is a seasoned entrepreneur, having earned his Bachelor's Degree in Marketing and Finance from Southern Methodist University. In 1994, he founded General Work Products, a wholesale importer specializing in industrial supplies and height safety equipment. After successfully developing the business over three decades, transforming it from a startup into a multi-million dollar enterprise, he sold General Work Products in 2024. Not content without hard work and a challenge, Greg launched Brilliant Safety in the UK the same year and later acquired the Checkmate brand, further expanding his impact in the industry.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Greg is an avid golfer and enjoys staying fit through cycling, balancing his work with a passion for an active lifestyle.

Chris Stockbridge
Chris Stockbridge

Engineering Director


With 25 years of engineering experience, Chris is a fully trained toolmaker, starting his career as an injection mould maker apprentice, and holds a degree in mechanical engineering. His impressive career includes 15 years in fall protection, starting in Checkmate Lifting & Safety, culminating in his role as Global Director of Engineering at Guardian Fall Protection, where he collaborated with industry leaders to design and manufacture, innovative and successful products.

Chris has several patents to his name and has successfully brought countless products to market. His unique skill set combines hands-on expertise in toolmaking with comprehensive knowledge of design, testing, compliance, and global standards development.

In addition to his engineering pursuits, Chris runs a 3D printing business, showcasing his passion for technology and innovation. Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor adventures and adrenaline-fueled activities, embracing the thrill of nature.

Duncan Barrier
Duncan Barrier

Technical Director


I joined Checkmate in 2006 as a Design Engineer, following a career that began at the Home Office, where I was involved in developing standards for testing PPE used by the police. I hold a BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering degree from Brunel University.

During my time at Checkmate, I have developed broad experience across product design, compliance, technical management and quality. This progression led to my role as Technical & Quality Manager, before advancing to my current position as Technical Director. Along the way, I also spent time working with LEEA, further expanding my industry knowledge and experience.

With extensive knowledge of lifting and safety equipment, I have been involved in UK and European standards committees, contributing to the development of industry standards. As a long-standing member of the Checkmate team, I bring a deep understanding of our products, our customers and the standards that support safe working.

Outside of work, I enjoy anything water-based, including sailing, scuba diving, swimming and paddleboarding. On land, I also enjoy cycling.

Tom Maude
Tom Maude

National Key Account Manager


Tom began his career as a car sales executive at JCT600, where he honed his skills in customer relations and sales strategies. Over the years, he transitioned to business development within the facilities management sector, leveraging his expertise to drive growth and enhance operational efficiency.

Previously, Tom served as a National Account Manager at Gilray Plant, focusing on the construction and scaffolding industry. His experience in managing key accounts and fostering client relationships has equipped him with a deep understanding of the industry's nuances.

In 2024, Tom joined Brilliant Safety & Checkmate Safety to lead our national sales efforts. He brings a vibrant energy, creative problem-solving skills, and unwavering dedication to every project, making him an invaluable asset to our team and clients alike.

Luke Crouch
Luke Crouch

Sales Manager


Since joining Checkmate in 2012, I have worked across a variety of roles, gaining hands-on experience in hard goods and fall arrest block assembly, packing, warehousing, quality control and customer service.

Now working as Sales Manager, I use my broad knowledge of the business and its products to support our customers, understand their requirements and build strong, long-lasting relationships.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, following football and cricket, and playing padel, which has recently become a real passion. I also enjoy supporting the local community by managing my son’s Under-8 football team and serving as Chairman of my local cricket club.

Mike Cox
Mike Cox

Operations Manager


I joined Checkmate in 2016 as Stores Manager and have since progressed into the role of Operations Manager.

I am very hands-on and have developed a strong understanding of Checkmate’s manufacturing processes, supply chain and day-to-day operations. My role involves helping to ensure the business runs efficiently, from production through to delivery, while supporting the wider team across the company.

Outside of work, I enjoy going to watch football and spending time with my family.

Claire Hobby
Claire Hobby

Finance Manager


I have more than 25 years’ experience working in finance. I previously spent four years with Checkmate as a Finance Assistant before leaving the business for a period and returning two years later as Finance Manager.

In my role, I focus on building strong, long-lasting relationships with our customers and suppliers, while helping to protect and strengthen the Checkmate brand and reputation.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, playing golf and travelling.

Micheal Dixon
Micheal Dixon

Training Manager


I joined Checkmate in 2024, bringing extensive experience in rope access, rigging, rope rescue and specialist safety training.

As an IRATA L3i with a professional background as a rope rescue medic, I am passionate about delivering practical, high-quality training that supports safe working in challenging environments.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my children and volunteering as a Safety Supervisor at GRIMP Day events worldwide.

Caroline Cotter
Caroline Cotter

Sales & Customer Service Administrator


I joined Checkmate in May 2022 and currently work in Sales and Customer Service Administration, supporting customers and helping to ensure orders and enquiries are handled efficiently.

Before joining Checkmate, I worked in a variety of administrative and support roles, starting as a typist in a typing pool for NAAFI, before moving to NatWest Bank as an Executive Secretary in London. I later worked as an Exams Officer at secondary schools in Bexleyheath and Sittingbourne.

Outside of work, I love cooking, baking and travelling. I especially enjoy exploring cities in France and Belgium by motorbike, with Dinant in Belgium being a particular favourite for its history, riverside views and famous Citadel.

Penny Stanton
Penny Stanton

Training and Sales Customer Service Administrator


I joined Checkmate in October 2024, moving into a new industry and taking on a role primarily focused within the training department, while also supporting sales and customer service.

I have a degree in Sports Coaching Science, which followed my lifelong interest in sport, particularly competitive swimming, which I pursued before going to university. Before joining Checkmate, I worked in a variety of roles, including car sales administration and, most recently, as a Teaching Assistant and SEN Teaching Assistant in a primary school.

Outside of work, I enjoy running, water sports and socialising at the weekends. I also enjoy watching rugby and can often be found at Twickenham.

Quality, Certification & Compliance

Checkmate Safety

Quality, Certification & Compliance

At Checkmate Lifting & Safety Ltd, quality, safety and compliance are at the heart of everything we do. Our products, manufacturing processes and training services are independently assessed by internationally recognised certification bodies, providing our customers with confidence that they are working with a trusted and competent partner.

We believe that true assurance comes from independent certification, robust quality management, continual investment in engineering and testing, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Every product we manufacture and every service we provide is supported by recognised standards, rigorous quality controls and independently audited management systems.

ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Quality, Certification & Compliance

ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Checkmate Lifting & Safety operates a Quality Management System certified to ISO 9001:2015 by SGS United Kingdom Ltd, a UKAS-accredited certification body.

Our quality management system governs every stage of our business, from product design and procurement through to manufacturing, inspection, testing and customer support. Regular independent audits ensure consistency, continual improvement and complete product traceability.

Module D Quality Assurance

Quality, Certification & Compliance

Module D Quality Assurance

Our PPE manufacturing operates under Module D – Conformity to Type Based on Quality Assurance of the Production Process in accordance with the PPE Regulation.

Our Module D approval is independently audited by SGS, providing ongoing verification that our manufacturing, inspection and testing processes consistently produce PPE that conforms to the approved certified designs.

This gives our customers confidence that quality is embedded throughout our manufacturing processes, not simply verified at the final inspection stage.

BSIF Registered Safety Supplier

Quality, Certification & Compliance

BSIF Registered Safety Supplier

Checkmate Lifting & Safety is proud to be a Registered Safety Supplier with the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF).

The BSIF Registered Safety Supplier Scheme demonstrates our commitment to supplying only genuine, certified and fully compliant safety products, providing customers with complete confidence in the products they purchase.

GWO Accredited Training Centre

Quality, Certification & Compliance

GWO Accredited Training Centre

Our dedicated training facility is accredited by the Global Wind Organisation (GWO).

We deliver internationally recognised training programmes for the renewable energy sector, including Working at Height, Manual Handling, First Aid, Fire Awareness and Enhanced Rescue. Our experienced instructors and purpose-built facilities ensure delegates receive practical, high-quality training that meets globally recognised industry requirements.

Engineering, Testing & Innovation

Quality, Certification & Compliance

Engineering, Testing & Innovation

Quality begins with engineering.

Our in-house engineering and testing facilities support the design, validation and continuous development of our products through dynamic, static and environmental testing. This enables us to verify product performance, validate compliance with international standards and continually develop innovative solutions for the lifting, height safety and dropped object prevention industries.

Commitment to International Standards

Quality, Certification & Compliance

Commitment to International Standards

Our products are designed, manufactured and tested in accordance with the applicable international standards for their intended application. Through independent certification, controlled manufacturing processes and rigorous quality assurance, we deliver products that customers can trust in the most demanding working environments.

Our commitment is built on:

  • Independent third-party certification
  • ISO 9001 quality management
  • SGS-audited manufacturing systems
  • BSIF Registered Safety Supplier status
  • GWO accredited training
  • Engineering excellence
  • Comprehensive product testing
  • Full product traceability
  • Continuous innovation
  • Confidence Through Quality

For over 40 years, Checkmate Lifting & Safety has built its reputation on engineering excellence, product innovation and independently verified quality.

Our investment in internationally recognised certification, accredited manufacturing systems, advanced engineering and world-class training demonstrates our commitment to delivering products and services that provide complete confidence in safety, quality and performance.