Iain McIlwee is to stand down as chief executive of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) after almost seven years. The BWF has announced that Helen Hewitt has been appointed acting CEO with immediate effect.
Helen joined the BWF as membership director and Wood Window Alliance lead in November 2017 and is said to have already made a ‘significant impact’ in many areas of the business, especially in helping to improve processes and engagement with members as well as supporting the Build it Better with Wood values of the organisation.
Iain will continue to work alongside Helen at the BWF until the end of September, when he leaves to take up a new role as chief executive of FIS, (Finishes & Interiors Sectors), the trade body which represents the fit-out sector.
BWF president, Sean Parnaby, said: “Over the last seven years Iain has contributed hugely to the BWF’s step change in profile and activity and helped to ensure we genuinely are one of the outstanding performing trade associations in the UK. He leaves with our gratitude and blessing and we look forward to working with him in his new role.
“We are delighted to have Helen on board, she has a strong track record in developing training and membership organisations in the materials supply chain and her commercial experience will help in directing the BWF through the next period as it naturally evolves. This is an exciting time for the BWF as we promote the UK’s exceptional woodworking skills and the many benefits of building with wood, and we are looking forward to the future.”
