FTA SEEKS LOGISTICS LEADER

'Wanted: A charismatic industry figurehead experienced in the rail freight, deep sea shipping and air cargo sectors, able to champion the interests of operators and other partners to national Governments, the European institutions and local authorities.'

This is the job description of a high profile position being recruited at the Freight Transport Association this autumn.

James Hookham, Deputy Chief Executive explains: 'With the departure of Andrew Traill to the consultancy sector following many years as Secretary of our Rail Freight Council, FTA is faced with the challenge of ensuring continuity of service and the growth of our profile and influence with policy makers that Andrew has successfully achieved.

'We are looking for someone who is respected within the industry but can also "cut it" with Government in articulating the policies and actions that are needed to improve efficiency in these sectors and support future growth. He or she would be joining a strong policy team which has productive relationships with all the major players in these sectors.

'Recent results from FTA's Freight Future research project predict huge growth in maritime, air and rail transport as manufactured imports rise and more and more consumer goods are imported from abroad.  Shaping FTA's activities in these sectors will be the primary responsibility of our new Head of Rail Freight and Global Logistics Policy.  We are looking for someone who can bring practical knowledge and experience from this sector to the job and combine it with the communication and diplomacy skills necessary in dealing with official bodies.  This is also the role that connects FTA with the international logistics market and involves liaison with European trade associations as well as global bodies such as the WTO and OECD.'

FTA will be appointing recruitment consultants later this month and the ideal candidate will see this position as a logical and progressive advance in their career in logistics.