Carla Bridge has been appointed GM of POPAI Australia and New Zealand.
Ms Bridge succeeds Lee McClymont and will commence in her new role from October 3.
Ms McClymont will remain with the association, stepping up to a role on the POPAI board of directors, in addition to her new role as ANZ marketing manager for Valspar Australia.
Ms Bridge brings almost 15 years of retail industry leadership to the role, most recently as head of media and communications at the Australian Retailers Association, and as former managing editor of Inside Retail.
POPAI chairman, Janet Bailey, said Ms Bridge’s contribution will be key to the continuing evolution of POPAI as the Australian home of retail marketing and shopper experience.
“POPAI has undergone significant change, as has the whole of retail. As an industry body, we now represent end to end retail marketing and experience, wherever that experience may be – in-store, online, or at any touchpoint, anywhere.
“Carla has a unique perspective on this evolution. In her previous roles at the Australian Retailers Association and Inside Retail, she has been commentating on these trends for many years.
“Our membership will benefit greatly from her passion for sharing global and Australian best practice through online industry intelligence, events, awards, education, and networking.”
Ms Bailey also thanked Ms McClymont for her “strong leadership and passion” during her tenure.
“In collaboration with the board, Lee has completely modernised the association’s operations and industry voice, and we look forward to her continued contribution on the board of directors.
“The work of POPAI is growing and evolving, with our thought leadership in the areas of retail experience and shopper marketing. In 2017 we will deliver more than ever to our members and the industry.”
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