ARA gets new leader as Evans steps down
The Council of the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has today accepted the resignation of Executive Director Richard Evans.President of the national retail industry body, Roger Gillespie, acknowledged the work of Mr Evans and announced ARA Councillor Russell Zimmerman would step in as Executive Director.
“The ARA Council appreciates the work Richard has accomplished in raising the profile of the ARA and opening avenues to have retail issues heard through the corridors of power. He leaves the ARA with a strong brand in the retail representative market and has given a tremendous voice to issues at the heart of Australian retailers,” he said.
Mr Gillespie believes Zimmerman’s experience makes him suitable to the role.
“Russell has 30 years experience as a SME retailer and has been an ARA National Council member since 1996, serving two years as National President. Since 2004 Russell has also chaired the Australian Merchant Payments Forum which is involved in payment systems reforms,” he advised.
The ARA is the peak retail body that represents retailers in all aspects of conducting business and will continue with this focus.
“Over the coming weeks Russell will be in contact with retailers throughout Australia to discuss the increased member services including enhanced employment relations advice and to clarify ongoing needs of Australian retailers,” Mr Gillespie added. “Another key driver of the ARA will be to re-ignite the strong policy committee structures and engage with retailers to tackle issues in a timely and strategic manner.”
