It was with great sadness that UIC learnt of the death of Michael Smith, Secretary of the Technical Management Board at ISO (International Standardisation Organisation). He died suddenly on 25 September 2011, in New Delhi, where he had been attending a meeting of the TMB and ISO’s 34th General Assembly.

UIC wishes to pay tribute to Michael Smith’s work. He was the TMB Secretary since its inception in 1994, during which his exemplary leadership qualities in an international environment were most valued. He helped build a strong team within the ISO Central Secretariat and brought out the best in those he led.

“During his tenure, Mike witnessed several dramatic changes and developments in the ISO standards development processes. Mike’s conflict resolution skills were second to none and he played a key role in guiding committees and ensuring coherence within the technical community. He played a major role in overseeing numerous improvements, including in the development of standards, the ISO Chairs’ conferences, and ISO business plans. In addition, Mike was instrumental in contributing to the launch of some of the most well-known ISO standards, including ISO 9000, ISO 14000 and ISO 26000” said Rob Steele, ISO Secretary-General about him.

The UIC was working closely with Mike on the development of a specific Technical Cooperation Agreement between the UIC and ISO for standardisation. Director-General Jean-Pierre Loubinoux wishes to acknowledge the level of cooperation achieved between the ISO and UIC.

The UIC team would like to extend their deepest sympathy and most sincere condolences to both Mr Smith’s family and the staff of ISO.