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The Bicycle Association of Great Britain has consolidated its management team to "prepare the association for the crucial five-year period ahead," says a statement from the organisation.
After a number of years managing the BA as operations director Steve Garidis is elevated to the position of executive director taking the place of Phillip Darnton who will now chair the organisation’s board.
Simon Irons, previously the group cycling director at Halfords, extends his role for the Association, having led the development of the BA’s market data service which launches soon.
Also formally joining the team is Daniel Gillborn, previously general manager of Cyclescheme at the Grass Roots Group. Peter Eland continues his role leading the Association’s technical work including securing UK interests in standards development and new regulations. He now also represents the UK at CEN and ISO level.
Garidis said: "We have an ambitious programme underway to position our industry for the future, and this needs a top team with the skills and enthusiasm to deliver it."
He added: "With Brexit around the corner, a potential transport cycling boom in the making, and some of the biggest changes we’ve seen in the industry taking place, a strong and capable trade body is vital to ensure the cycle industry’s interests are secured.”
The BA has also created a leadership programme with a board comprised of BA members Brompton, Evans Cycles, Frog Bikes, Giant, Halfords, Islabikes, Moore Large, Raleigh, Schwalbe, Specialized, Trek and Zyrofisher.
"The programme is focused on growing the market for all by getting more people cycling, and supporting the industry over the next five years," said Garidis.
To support this programme the BA has appointed PR and marketing agency Teneo Blue Rubicon, and is also partnering with sustainable transport consultancy Transport for the Quality of Life to continue to build the industry’s economic case and evidence base.
