Richard Evans, the outspoken executive director of retail body the Australian Retailers Association, yesterday tendered his resignation effective immediately.
ARA president Roger Gillespie stated that the current ARA councillor, Russel Zimmerman, will step into the role.
“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,” Gillespie said.
“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.”
Gillespie was confident that Zimmerman’s experience in the industry will be an asset to the organisation.
“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,” he said. “Since 2004 Russell has also chaired the Australian Merchant Payments Forum which is involved in payment systems reforms.”
According to Gillespie, Zimmerman will work closely with the ARA Council and retailers throughout the country, to ensure the ARA’s ongoing success.
“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,” he said.
“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.”