The ARA has appointed a senior management team with extensive experience to drive the renewal program of the association. Headed up by former federal MP and experienced industry association executive Richard Evans the management team will focus on membership services and increasing the representative processes for the retail sector.
“The retail sector needs the ARA to be strong and loud, fighting for retailers to improve their economic position,” Evans said.
“We also need to be focused on members, providing them with superior membership services. The appointment of talented managers is critical to renewing the brand and driving improved services.”
Former federal MP, Phil Barresi, has been appointed Director of Employment Relations and has developed a national approach to the department’s services.
Phil has extensive experience within human resources and industrial relations both commercially and within government and adds superior weight to the work the ARA will be developing.
James Roper, former CEO of House has joined the ARA to drive renewal in Retail Business Services and will be focused on providing fundamental support for retailers to grow and prosper. James is highly skilled in retailing and will bring services to the ARA which will provide members a commercial advantage.
Jennifer Cromarty has joined the ARA as Director Corporate Affairs – a new policy development department focused on ensuring the ARA has a strong voice on issues that affect retailers. Jennifer has extensive experience within industry associations and is a public relations and policy expert.
“These highly effective senior executives will build teams to reposition the ARA as the industry leader. There is a place for special interest representation within the sector, however the ARA is the national voice of retail, therefore it will be working effectively to ensure retailers are represented on issues that are pertinent to the entire industry. The ARA will also increase its services to the sector ensuring retailers have a better commercial deal helping them grow and prosper,” Evans said.
“Our renewal program will ensure our members have leading employment relations services, access to leading retail education and training programs, and premium retail services which will allow members to save money.
“The Council of the ARA is committed to ensuring retail has a strong voice in government, industry and small business policy forums. These senior appointments confirm this commitment.”
