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New chairman appointed at Brick Development Association
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The Brick Development Association (BDA) announces the appointment of Michael Ankers OBE as its incoming Chairman. Michael, who served as the BDA’s Chief Executive from 1995 to 1998, will rejoin the Association in December of this year, following the retirement of Alan Baxter.
With over 40 years’ experience in various industry sectors, Michael most recently held the position of Chief Executive of the Construction Products Association which he established as a highly effective representative body for that £50 billion industry during his 13-year tenure. In the course of his career, he has held various positions within government departments as well as serving as Director of the Chartered Institute of Building.
Michael commented on his appointment: “I am honoured to have been invited to chair the Association. The brick industry has an important part to play in the recovery of the construction industry and particularly the creation of the additional housing that politicians in all the major political parties recognise the country urgently needs. These are exciting and challenging times for the brick industry, and the Brick Development Association has an important role to play. I am very much looking forward to playing my part in this”.
During his previous time with the BDA, Michael developed a new business strategy designed to raise the profile of the brick industry and the BDA’s role within the sector. He also strengthened links with the Government and the other main political parties, and was instrumental in the establishment of the Masonry Alliance, as well as the Better Brickwork Alliance which encourages closer ties between manufacturers and brickwork subcontractors.
Michael has represented the UK brick industry at European level, and is currently Chairman of the Considerate Constructors’ Scheme, and council member and trustee at the BRE. His non-executive positions include Director at the British Board of Agrement and Director of the CIC Approved Inspectors’ Register. He is also Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Constructors and Freeman of the City of London.
In 2009, Michael was awarded an OBE for services to the construction industry. Three years later, he received a Special Lifetime Award from the Chartered Institute of Marketing for services to marketing in the construction industry, and last year he was granted Honorary Life Membership of the Construction Industry Council.
Alan Baxter commented: “We are delighted with the appointment of Michael as our new chairman. Michael and I worked together previously when I was Chairman of the BDA in the late nineties, and his time at the CPA. We are confident with Michael’s invaluable experience the BDA will continue to provide exceptional service to its members”.
