DIYWEEK.net

Sarah Golden is named as the trade association's first female director, while Keith Christian is appointed director of training and Anthony McCarrick takes up role of national sales membership manager.
Sarah Golden was promoted to the newly created role of marketing director this month and becomes the first female full board director in Bira's 112-year history.

Having worked for the retail trade association for nearly 10 years, Ms Golden will now be responsible for Bira's marketing strategies across the whole group.

She said of her new role: "I am thrilled to be joining the executive team at this exciting time in the evolution of the association. It's been a demanding 18 months developing the new name and brand, but incredibly rewarding."

She added: "I'm looking forward to working with the five directors in continuing to raise the profile of the organisation... We have huge potential for growth, and I'm up for the challenge."

Keith Christian, already director of the BAGMA division, has been promoted to director of training. In his new role, Mr Christian will oversee the association's Oxford Summer School and other training products.

Finally, Anthony McCarrick has been appointed as Bira's first national membership sales manager. Mr McCarrick, who hails from the fashion industry and has a strong background in sales, will be tasked with helping Bira make gains in the vast independent retail market.

Bira membership director Bob Jarrett said of Mr McCarrick's appointment: "This is a crucial position for the association in terms of delivering membership growth. Our research shows that there are tens of thousands of independents in the UK, outnumbering multiple outlets two to one, who could benefit hugely from Bira membership. It will be Tony's job to reach them and to bring the benefits of membership to them."