Patrick Cran Appointed CICA Chief Executive Designate
- Meagan Wood
- Feb 4
- 3 min read
30-Second Takeaway
CICA has named long-serving CraneSafe leader Patrick Cran as its new chief executive designate, with the transition set for May 8. With more than a decade of experience across crane safety operations, accreditation, and training, Cran’s appointment signals continuity and a strong focus on safety, professionalism, and industry leadership as Brandon Hitch relocates to the United States.
Leadership Transition at CICA
The Crane Industry Council of Australia (CICA) has appointed Patrick Cran as chief executive designate, with Cran set to formally take up the role on May 8. The appointment coincides with the current chief executive, Brandon Hitch, commencing his move to the United States.
Extensive CraneSafe and Industry Experience
Patrick Cran brings more than a decade of experience within CICA and CraneSafe, having served for the past 10 and a half years as CICA site operations advisor. During this time, he has played a central role in leading CraneSafe’s operations, systems, assessor quality, accreditation, and risk controls.
Cran began his crane industry career in 2009 as a technician with Manitowoc Cranes Australia. He became a CraneSafe assessor in 2012, progressed to a trainer role in late 2014, and moved into his current leadership position a few months later.
Driving Safety, Training, and Accreditation
Announcing the appointment, CICA highlighted Cran’s impact on CraneSafe’s development and governance.
“Pat Cran has been instrumental in leading CraneSafe’s operations, systems, assessor quality, accreditation, and risk controls,” the association said. “His commercial leadership, coupled with practical industry credibility, all of which make him the ideal person to guide CICA into its next chapter.”
During his tenure, Cran has delivered measurable outcomes, including:
Successful NATA audits
Expansion of training programmes
The launch of initiatives such as CrewSafe and StartSafe
He has also worked closely with Brandon Hitch and the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) to secure the landmark CraneSafe Australia–USA partnership, known as Greensticker by CraneSafe USA, further strengthening CICA’s international standing in crane safety and training.
Industry Confidence in New Appointment
CICA president Marcus Ferrari welcomed the appointment, expressing strong confidence in Cran’s leadership.
“We are thrilled to welcome Pat as CICA’s chief executive,” said Ferrari. “His extensive experience, industry credibility, and proven leadership in CraneSafe make him the perfect person to lead CICA forward. We have no doubt that under his guidance, the organisation will continue to innovate, grow, and set the benchmark for safety and professionalism in the crane industry.”
About CICA
The Crane Industry Council of Australia (CICA) is the national peak body representing the Australian crane industry. Through initiatives such as CraneSafe, CICA works to improve safety standards, training quality, and operational consistency across crane operations, supporting contractors, operators, and industry stakeholders nationwide.
Website: https://www.cica.com.au
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has been appointed CICA chief executive designate?
Patrick Cran has been appointed chief executive designate of the Crane Industry Council of Australia.
When will Patrick Cran take up the role?
Cran will formally assume the role on May 8.
What is Patrick Cran’s background in the crane industry?
He began his career in 2009 with Manitowoc Cranes Australia and has spent more than 10 years leading CraneSafe operations within CICA.
Why is Brandon Hitch stepping down as CICA chief executive?
Brandon Hitch is stepping down as he relocates to the United States, following his work on international crane safety collaboration.
