ARA President Roger Gillespie said the ARA is looking “to re-ignite the strong policy committee structures and engage with retailers to tackle issues in a timely and strategic manner.”

Incoming Executive Director Zimmerman has 30 years experience as a SME retailer and has been an ARA National Council member since 1996, serving two years as National President.

Gillespie thanked Richard Evans for his service to the association.

“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. 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,” said Gillespie.