His retirement follows a long and varied career in the heating industry which began as an apprentice gas fitter in the 1960s.
Having served as president of the Institute of Plumbing in the 1980s, Soper joined Worcester Heat Systems in 1993 before becoming MD of Bosch Thermotechnology, which incorporates both brands, in 2001.
Richard became CEO in 2011 after handing the baton to Worcester’s current MD Carl Arntzen.
“During my years at Worcester I have been lucky to have worked with some amazing like-minded people who have shared and continue to share my passion for delivering heating and hot water comfort,” said Richard.
“From the day I started out I have always enjoyed working with plumbers, installers and contractors too. They bring an incredible amount of value to people’s lives.”
He added: “Now I have retired, I will be supporting the CIPHE and their team of professionals to continue to identify ways of promoting careers in the industry, with the aim of encouraging more young people to get involved.”