British Retail Consortium appoints new director general

The British Retail Consortium today announced Stephen Robertson will step down from his role of director-general after five years, and to appoint Helen Dickinson, the current head of retail at KPMG, from January 1st, 2013.

The BRC is the lead trade association representing the whole range of retailers, from the large multiples and department stores through to independents, selling a wide selection of products through centre of town, out of town, rural and virtual stores.

The company further announced Ian Cheshire, chief executive of DIY retailer Kingfisher, will become its new chairman.

Dickinson has over 20 years' experience at KPMG as UK Head of Retail and Audit and Relationship Partner for many retail businesses. She is also a highly regarded media commentator on developments in the industry. She is a founder member and Chair of the KPMG/Ipsos Retail Think Tank which meets quarterly to assess the state of health of the sector through the Retail Health Index and to consider issues which are of relevance and interest to retailers through regular white papers.

Helen Dickinson said: "Against the current economic backdrop, the BRC's work in supporting retailers to develop their businesses and tackling the challenges that they, and the sector, face is more crucial than ever. The organisation provides an important voice and leadership to the industry and will continue to play a vital role to help it adapt and change as technology and economic pressures cause traditional retail models to evolve.

"My experience at KPMG has enabled me to work closely with a wide range of retailers across many areas, as well as consider developments across the market as a whole, which I hope will prove an excellent grounding for this role.

"I am hugely excited about the opportunity of working with Ian, Rob, all the BRC team and alongside the BRC's members to champion their priorities and to continue to build on the important contribution the retail industry makes to the UK economy."

Image: Helen Dickinson