Graeme Smith, Managing Director of the Cyan Group took over from Matt Franks as new chair of the BPMA at the recent AGM.  Graeme has been involved with the board for the last 5 years and is passionate about the world of promotional merchandise.

Before joining Cyan Group, Graeme was a professional rugby player and enjoyed a brief but successful career in both rugby union and rugby league. He was lucky enough to represent England and Scotland at junior international age groups. The experience he gained from playing in the top flight was invaluable and many qualities he learned during this time have been able to translate through into the workplace. In 2008 Graeme took part in the inaugural BPMA Academy – Certificate in Promotional Merchandise and achieved a distinction grade.

Graeme is also a current council member for the IPIA (Independent Print Industry Association) Graeme joined the Board in October 2014.

Commenting on the new role, Graeme said “I am delighted to be taking on the role of Chairman at such a pivotal time. We are blessed with having a really proactive board and secretariat at the BPMA and I am looking forward to continuing with the good work and initiatives that Matt Franks had started, to bring these through to fruition. My goal will be to ensure that as an association we are maximising the opportunities for our members to inspire, connect and educate.”

The BPMA also welcomes 3 new board directors Malcolm Garnett from Promotrade, Andrew Kouroushi from Stormtech and Tracey Bowen from PF Concept, who have commented on their appointments.

Comment from Malcolm: “I am proud and honoured to have been elected to the board of the BPMA. Having watched the Association flourish and grow during my years in the industry, its influence and excellent work can never be under-estimated. I look forward to making an active and meaningful contribution to both the BPMA and the wider Promotional Merchandise industry.”

Comment from Tracey: “I am honoured and delighted to join the board of the BPMA.  The health, growth, and development of the BPMA is vital to ensure the Promotional Merchandise industry continues to improve its rank, reputation, and significance with end users.  The association works tirelessly to set professional standards and to provide top quality educational programmes for its members. I am proud to have been given the opportunity to play a more active role within the BPMA and work towards helping the association and industry achieve its future goals.”