Following the announcement of his death, the organisation released a statement outlining the key role Phil played in the development of both TCCA and the critical communications sector as a whole.  The statement read:  "Phil managed TCCA through a decade of significant change as critical broadband appeared on the horizon, while still maintaining a high profile for TETRA.

"He had many, many career highlights, among which was the signing of the 3GPP Partnership Agreement in 2013, the formal document that made TCCA the Market Representation Partner for critical communications in 3GPP.  He worked closely with ETSI to help deliver the first Mission Critical Push-to-Talk Plugtests in 2017.  These have now evolved into the MCX Plugtests."

The statement continued:  "Phil enhanced the profile and stature of TCCA and transformed its TETRA World Congress event into the Critical Communications World event of today, the leading conference and exhibition globally for the critical communications ecosystem.  Phil's regional TETRA roadshows introduced the technology to many new countries and made a huge contribution to the strength of the TETRA standard today."

Speaking of his memories of Phil, chair of the TCCA Board, Mladen Vratonjić, said:  "Phil was unique in his knowledge, expertise, passion and commitment.  He had time for everyone and was a highly valued mentor to many.

"His contribution to the critical communications sector is unmatched.  I was proud to work with him and proud to call him a friend.  On behalf of TCCA, I extend sincere condolences to Phil's family – such an immeasurable loss."

In 2017, TCCA awarded the contract to stage Critical Communications World to CCT publisher, MA Exhibitions, part of Mark Allen Group.  Phil was part of the decision-making committee, subsequently working closely with Mark Allen Group chief operating officer, Jon Benson.  He was also integral to the launch of Critical Communications Today (originally TETRA Today) in 2010.

Discussing this, Jon Benson said:  "It was both a pleasure and a privilege to work alongside Phil.  His determination and enthusiasm to promote the benefits of TETRA around the world were exceptional and brought the standard to the attention of many territories.

"Personally, he was a huge support to me – always offering encouragement and advice and always in good humour.  We would not have launched TETRA Today were it not for Phil's vision to promote the unique benefits of TETRA to a global audience.  I could not have respected PK more."

Phil retired from TCCA in 2017.

Author:  Philip Mason