Independent retailer Ramesh Shingadia is a seasoned professional in the retail sector, with 40 years of experience. Throughout his career, he has achieved numerous accolades including several store of the year awards. Now, Shingadia has assumed the role of chair on the ACS board, transitioning from his previous role as vice chair, which he held since February 2021. Beginning his tenure on the ACS board in 2017, Shingadia takes over from Louise Hoste, who served as chair since September 2021.
The complete ACS board leadership appointments are as follows:
– Main board chair: Ramesh Shingadia, independent retailer
– Main board vice chair: Phil Ponsonby, group chief executive, The Midcounties Co-operative
– Main board vice chair: Colm Johnson, managing director, Booker Retail
– Audit committee chair: Maria Eaton, finance director, Motor Fuel Group
In relation to the appointments, ACS chief executive James Lowman expressed his delight and emphasized the invaluable experience and knowledge that Shingadia, Ponsonby, Johnson, and Eaton bring to their respective leadership positions. Lowman believes that their expertise will strengthen ACS’ influence and effectiveness as the representative voice for all convenience stores.
Regarding the outgoing chair, Louise Hoste, Lowman praised her exceptional leadership and advocacy for ACS and its members, which have enhanced the organization’s support for both retailers and suppliers.
Expressing his gratitude, Ramesh Shingadia, the newly elected chair, reflects on his deep sense of honor, humility, and privilege in assuming this role. He recognizes the complexity and dynamism of the convenience market, and commends ACS for its foresight, innovation, and guidance in supporting the sector. Shingadia emphasizes the board’s commitment to lobby the government on issues affecting convenience stores, while also providing daily support to retailers and suppliers.
Phil Ponsonby, who is taking on one of the vice-chair roles, acknowledges the privilege of his appointment after being a member of the ACS board for the past seven years. Ponsonby credits ACS’ ability to strike a balance in working with retailers and suppliers for their mutual benefit. He believes ACS is uniquely positioned to promote and elevate the standing of the convenience sector to the government, thanks to its firm understanding of the sector’s challenges and opportunities.
Colm Johnson, another vice chair, expresses his excitement about the role and the importance of ACS’ work in the convenience sector. With the sector undergoing significant changes, Johnson believes ACS has the capability to embrace these opportunities and advocate for local shops on issues that truly impact them.
Maria Eaton, the chair of the Audit Committee, expresses her honor in joining the ACS board and leading the committee. She acknowledges the ACS team’s tireless efforts in supporting local shops and members through lobbying, simplifying legislative requirements, and providing networking and learning opportunities that would otherwise be inaccessible to retailers and suppliers.
In summary, Ramesh Shingadia’s election as chair, along with the other board members’ appointments, signifies ACS’ commitment to fortifying its position as a powerful advocate for convenience stores. The board brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of the sector, ensuring ACS continues to support and represent retailers and suppliers effectively.
