Patrick Cran Appointed CICA Chief Executive Designate

Meagan Wood
2 days ago
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