FWD appoints Lyndsey Cambridge in new top role

Federation of Wholesale Distributors (FWD) has announced the appointment of Lyndsey Cambridge to the new role of Head of Engagement.

Well-known throughout the wholesale and convenience sector in her previous role as a reporter for media outlet The Grocer, Cambridge has been a strong ally for wholesalers in recent years and brings her first-class knowledge of the issues that affect them, FWD stated on Friday (7).

Cambridge will lead FWD’s membership management strategy, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and engagement with its wholesaler, supplier and service provider members. The Head of Engagement will also improve FWD’s understanding of its members and what they want from the Federation, and lead membership recruitment initiatives, as well as being the FWD lead on Women in Wholesale.

FWD Chief Executive James Bielby said that the team is massively complemented by the addition of “such a highly-regarded industry figure”.

“Throughout the pandemic, Lyndsey has demonstrated an understanding and a passion for the sector and helped to amplify our calls for support from the government. This is a very exciting appointment for us and is a serious statement of intent, building on our existing work and adding a new dimension to the team, as well as being a recognition that FWD is a place where stars of the trade want to work,” he said. 

“FWD is the voice of wholesale, but it’s absolutely vital that we listen as well, and accurately reflect the needs and interests of our members. This new role will make sure we do that by bringing us even closer to the 600 wholesalers we represent. It will also ensure suppliers into the wholesale channel benefit from their membership of FWD by helping them to understand the sector, identify opportunities, and come together with wholesalers through FWD’s networking and programme.”

Reacting to the news, Cambridge said, “I’m thrilled to have joined the FWD and very much looking forward to enhancing the great benefits our members receive. My appointment gives the Federation additional capacity to grow its offer, and provide far more touch points with the membership.

“It will also be an opportunity for us to build on the success of Women in Wholesale through additional support for its events and content. My time as wholesale reporter at The Grocer will be invaluable, enabling me to hit the ground running with a good understanding of the wholesale sector, what makes it tick, and the challenges it faces.”