New Board appointment supports BMF’s move in digital age

A digital business leader has joined the Board of a major trade body, which represents the multi-billion-pound building materials supply sector.

James Mitchell, Managing Director, UK & Ireland, of Kerridge Commercial Systems, has been appointed as a specialist Advisor to the Builders Merchants Federation.

The move comes as the BMF takes a lead in the building materials industry’s advancement towards digitalisation.

With 28 years’ experience of IT and software solutions, coupled with Kerridge Commercial System’s expertise in providing digital solutions across the building materials sector, James brings a new perspective to the BMF Board.

The Federation, which has its headquarters in Coventry, represents 870 merchant and supplier companies across the UK and Ireland, who together have combined sales of over £42billon and employ over 230,000 people in the building materials industry.

Richard Hill, Chairman of the BMF Board, said: “The BMF Board is responsible for the general control and management of the Federation, developing strategy and scrutinising performance.

“It is, therefore, important that its members bring a diverse range of experience and skills to the overall Board.

“James’ appointment reflects the increasing importance of digitalisation in our members’ business, and I am delighted to welcome him to the Board.”

James has a BSc (Hons) in Business and Computer Science, an Executive MBA from Cranfield University Business School and he is a member of the Institution of Engineering and Technology and a Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute.

James said: “The use of digital tools for business operations and processes is a subject I am very passionate about.

“The right digital tools generate efficiencies and improve services and importantly help merchants grow their business and profits sustainably. I am very much looking forward to working with the BMF board and its members to discuss, advise and provide insights on the future of digitalisation for the merchant industry.”