Jessica Alexander, former executive director; Tristine Hargreaves, executive director of the National Bed Federation
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Well known to the NBF and its members, Tristine Hargreaves has been appointed as its new executive director having been technical manager for four years before leaving to work for research and technology organisation SATRA. Tristine has spent most of her working life in technical roles within the furniture industry – counting Silentnight, Next and FIRA among her previous employers.
Ms Alexander announced her decision last October to step down from her role at the helm of the NBF, which she has held for the past 17 years. She will, however, be staying on in a part-time consultancy capacity to support the team.
Says Jessica: “It’s been an absolute joy and a privilege working for the NBF and The Sleep Council for the past 36 years but now feels the right time to step back a bit and allow others to take up the reins and lead the NBF into whatever future challenges and opportunities lie ahead.”
Mrs Hargreaves took up her role at the NBF from in April and will initially work alongside Ms Alexander to ensure a smooth handover. Says Tristine: “I am delighted to be returning to the NBF as executive director. Having worked closely with Jessica over the last five years, I have been involved in many of the NBF initiatives and projects aimed at helping the industry, including increasing its knowledge with regard to sustainability and the environment. l am looking forward to building upon the great work that has been achieved so far.”
Jim Gerety, NBF President said: “Jessica has worked for the NBF for an incredible 36 years, initially on the PR side, introducing the hugely successful marketing initiative National Bed Month and then running The Sleep Council for more than 10 years before taking over the running of the NBF itself in 2006.
“She has been an inspiring leader of the NBF overseeing its transformation into the modern, forward-thinking, leading trade association it is today – we can’t thank her enough for all that she has done for the industry and we are really pleased she has agreed to stay on and give us the benefit of her experience, passion and drive in a consultancy role for a while longer.
“Equally, we are thrilled to be welcoming Tristine back and feel sure that her knowledge and enthusiasm for the bed industry and the NBF will not only ensure the continuity of the good work the NBF is already doing but also bring her own individual and fresh perspective to the role. Our members can rest assured they will continue to be in safe hands!”
