Terry Knox has been appointed as the new Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) president, taking over from Lawrence Bleasdale who stepped down from the position last month. This move comes at the same time as IAAF’s Honorary Treasurer Richard Welland has been appointed the new vice president.
CD Group’s largest trading name, Component Distributors, is a warehouse distributor, supplying shops throughout Ireland. Headquartered in Belfast, Northern Ireland, the company employs close to 200 people.
"I feel that the past year has armed me with invaluable insight into the tireless activity of IAAF," said Knox. "Throughout my term as president I look forward to helping continue its work, and will give my all in promoting and securing the future of the independent aftermarket to the benefit of our members and the sector.”
Richard Welland is Managing Director of one of the UK’s largest rotating electrics suppliers, WAIGlobal. With extensive experience in the automotive industry and a proven track record of growing each business he has worked in, managed and owned, he has presided over numerous mergers and acquisitions, as well as been a pioneer in breaking down the boundaries over supply and price issues.
After Knox steps down at the end of his two-year term, Welland will assume the presidency role.
“I’m delighted to have more of an active role within IAAF and very much look forward to my term as vice president," said Welland. "There is still a long road ahead for the aftermarket in overcoming many challenges, which the federation along with its members will continue to address with belief, commitment and courage to achieve a fairer outcome for all.”
Wendy Williamson, IAAF chief executive, said, “I’m extremely pleased that IAAF’s relationship with both Terry and Richard has been further strengthened in their new roles as respective president and vice president. So far their contributions in helping us determine a strategy to combat the ongoing challenges faced by the aftermarket cannot be underestimated. Their drive and in-depth industry expertise make them a natural fit for their roles and I wish them every success.”
