Appointments: Simon Forrester appointed new NAJ CEO

Extremely well regarded by his peers, Simon has previously won the award of Trade Association Chief Executive of the Year in 2016 and his most recent association, The British Pest Control Association, has received several awards and nominations under his leadership.

He has a track record of delivering increased member benefits, training courses, governance reviews, best practice and a substantial code of conduct linked to purchaser confidence.

Simon began his career in the NHS, and in the mid-1990s moved to a senior management role in a professional body. He has worked for professional institutions and trade associations in the healthcare, business tourism and construction sectors, and until early 2018 runs the British Pest Control Association, the trade body for public health pest control, after which point he takes over the NAJ role.

Simon, 48, has an MBA from Birmingham City University, specialising in association development and innovation in not-for-profits.

NAJ Chairman Simon Johnson commented:

“After a very thorough search, I am delighted that Simon has agreed to join the association as our new Chief Executive. We saw some amazing candidates and CVs for this role, but Simon stood head and shoulders above the rest. I’m really excited to start working with him and introducing him to the industry.”

Simon came through a rigorous recruitment process that saw the NAJ receive over 120 original applications.

Reflecting on his appointment, Forrester said:

“I am honoured and excited to be appointed CEO of the NAJ and have the opportunity to work with the very experienced National Committee, dedicated staff and committed industry members of the organisation. 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 industry to advance the cause of our sector, and develop our team to address the challenges we face in the years ahead.”

NAJ Vice-Chairman Harriet Kelsall said of the appointment;

"Simon brings not only experience, enthusiasm and drive to this role but also the proven (award winning) ability to drive positive change, strategy and achieve operational goals."

Simon will begin his role in January 2018.