After nearly 17 years at the helm of the National Bed Federation and over 35 years working with the NBF, Jessica Alexander has announced her intention to begin her journey towards retirement.

Consequently, the NBF Board is starting the search for someone to replace her as Executive Director of the association.

Once her replacement is found, Ms Alexander will be staying on in a part-time capacity and will continue to lead the NBF’s sustainability agenda and planning for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and to represent the NBF’s interests on the boards of the British Furniture Confederation (BFC) and the Furniture & Interiors Education, Skills and Training Alliance (FIESTA). She will also be supporting her successor to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.

She will also continue to be an active member of the Furniture Makers’ Company and Charity, where she is currently Second Assistant.

NBF President Jim Gerety said: “We have been extremely fortunate to have had Jessica leading the NBF for so long. We owe her a huge debt of thanks for building the NBF into a modern, forward thinking, hugely respected trade association for our sector. We are delighted that we will have the benefit of her knowledge and experience for a while yet to ensure a smooth transition into a new era.”

Jessica added:” It’s been a hard decision – I love this job! But I do feel the time is right, both for me personally and for the NBF, to begin the process of passing on the baton. Meanwhile, I am excited to have the opportunity to continue my involvement in our sustainability agenda and in particular our engagement with government. The next couple of years is going to be a critical time.”