The Cast Metals Federation has appointed Simon Forrester to take over as chief executive from Dr Pam Murrell FICME from January 2025. They will work alongside each other from October during a transition period.
Forrester brings to the role a wealth of experience in the not-for-profit, membership association and education sectors. His most recent position was chief executive at the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI).
Pam Murrell said: “I am looking forward to supporting Simon in the coming months to introduce him to the industry. I know he is keen to get out to meet the membership and I will be supporting him during the handover and into the early part of 2025. The CMF is in a strong position presently, with many longstanding members, as well as several new ones from the around the UK and being able to have a proper handover is really valuable. We know that the industry has a key role to play in the circular economy of metals and as part of critical manufacturing supply chains, so the future is bright.”
Speaking about the appointment, CMF chair of council Steve Goodier said: “Simon is an outstanding leader bringing over 25 years of association leadership experience to the role, and it is excellent news that he will be joining us, following a robust recruitment process that saw applicants from across the sector and beyond.
“Simon’s experience with both membership and professional bodies makes him a great fit with the CMF’s core work. I know he is looking forward to meeting members and working with them on the many challenges facing our sector. I am certain that he will be a tremendous asset to CMF and is the right person to lead us as we face the challenges ahead."
Forrester says he is keen to continue the development of the CMF. “I am delighted to have the opportunity to join CMF as chief executive,” he said. “I aim to continue the great work undertaken by Pam Murrell by adding value to the member companies we support and continuing to address their needs. I commit to shape and lead the organisation by listening, respecting, collaborating and trusting. Key to this is connecting with the whole of the membership and providing direction to the staff team in which we all commit to deliver for our stakeholders. I am especially looking forward to working alongside colleagues from ICME, FESA and the other organisations supporting the UK foundry industry, and also colleagues from across the globe”.
A more in-depth profile of the CMF and Simon Forrester will be published in the next issue of Foundry Trade Journal.