The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers has appointed Simon Forrester as its new Chief Executive in succession to Angie Corkhill who had led the guild for the last three years.
Simon has held leadership roles in the healthcare, business tourism, jewellery and construction sectors, including five years as chief executive of the Association of Interior Specialists (now FIS), the British Pest Control Association and most recently as chief executive of the National Association of Jewellers, the UK’s leading jewellery trade association which also incorporates the Institute of Registered Valuers. He is also a director of the Institute of Association Leadership, the professional network for chief executives within the UK’s membership sector.
Simon was named Trade Association Chief Executive of the Year in 2016. He has a track record of delivering increased membership benefits, including improvements to training, governance, codes of conduct and best practice in business management.
Julian Newman, president of the GAI, said: “The GAI has spent this year focusing its work on boosting membership benefits, shaping technical and regulatory policy, increasing skills and competence in the sector, and promoting the vital value that GAI and IAI members deliver to the construction supply chain.
“With Simon at the helm, we know that this work will accelerate and move to a higher level, helping to support members through another year of significant change.”
Simon replied: “I look forward to working closely with all members to create and deliver integrated services that meet their needs. My key priorities are to learn more about our membership, engage them with compelling benefits, work with the whole door hardware industry to advance the cause of our sector, and develop our team to address the challenges we face in the years ahead.”
One of Simon’s earliest duties will also be the preparation of the GAI’s revitalised brand and relaunched events in 2021.
Gai.org.uk
