IRU Secretary General Umberto de Pretto is 2015 IRF Professional of the Year
July 13, 2015
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALEXANDRIA, Va. - The Secretary General of the International Road Transport Union, Umberto de Pretto, has been awarded the International Road Federation's highest and most prestigious individual distinction.
Established in 1951, the Professional of the Year Award recognizes eminent public, private and education sector professionals with an outstanding track record of leadership and commitment to the road transport industry. Throughout the years, the award has recognized some of the world's most influential transport leaders for their work in the field of advocacy, policy, research and educational programs in support of better, safer and more sustainable road networks globally.
Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the International Road Transport Union (IRU) upholds the interests of bus, coach, taxi and truck operators worldwide to ensure economic growth and prosperity through the sustainable mobility of people and goods via roads.
"The Award recognizes Mr. de Pretto's significant advocacy work in enhancing public understanding of the nature and economic role of road transport," noted Eng. Abdullah A. Al-Mogbel, chairman of the IRF. "Under his leadership, the IRU continues to address physical and non-physical impediments to commerce, thereby contributing to a much-needed debate on current and future road asset needs."
"I am honored to receive an award from an organization which, like the IRU, recognizes that road transport drives progress, prosperity and ultimately peace," said Mr. de Pretto. "This distinction is a tribute to the work of the IRU, my team, and, particularly, our Members who are committed to working together for a better future. I am all the more grateful to receive this distinguished IRF award as every millimeter of infrastructure built allows the road transport industry to better ensure the sustainable mobility of people and goods everywhere, anytime."
IRF President & CEO C. Patrick Sankey remarked how "both organizations share many of the same policy priorities, and it is my hope this award will pave the way for renewed cooperation around joint advocacy initiatives and demonstration programs."
The IRF Professional of the Year Award will be presented during the 1st IRF Europe & Central Asia Regional Congress & Exhibition, to be held in Istanbul, Turkey, September 15-18, 2015.
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ABOUT THE IRF: The International Road Federation, founded in 1948, is a not-for-profit, non-political organization with the mission to encourage and promote development and maintenance of better, safer and more sustainable roads and road networks. With a network in 117 countries across six continents, the IRF believes it can make a difference by providing best practices and expert advice to today's multi-faceted world of transport.