The Booksellers Association of the UK & Ireland (BA) has appointed Laura McCormack as its Head of Policy and Public Affairs, a newly refreshed role.

Joining the BA in February 2020, and working with the BA management team, McCormack will represent and promote the interests of the BA and its members to, the UK, Scottish, Welsh and Irish governments, the EU and the retail industry. 

At the BA she will help to develop a cohesive policy strategy across trade, government, media and consumer relations.

McCormack, previously worked as Policy and Communications Manager for the Financial Ombudsman Service, liaising with regulators and government departments, as well as building relationships with some of the biggest names in financial services and consumer rights. She holds an MA in Economic and Social History from the University of Glasgow,

Meryl Halls, MD at the BA, said: “We are thrilled to have Laura McCormack joining the BA. This is a key strategic role at the BA, particularly at this pivotal time for the UK and the high street. I am confident she will hit the ground running in addressing the most pressing issues to our members in the short and long term, and very much look forward to having her on board.”

Laura McCormack commented: “I’m absolutely delighted to be joining the BA. I am really looking forward to getting to know its members so we can work together to positively influence the many policy changes that will result from Brexit. During what is an unprecedentedly difficult time for the high street, it is vitally important that the BA’s members have strong representation to ensure the sector continues to grow and remains an important part of our society.”

McCormack will report directly to Halls and will work as a key part of the BA management team alongside Alan Staton, Director of Strategy & Communications, and Emma Bradshaw, Head of Campaigns, as well as the President and Officers of the BA. McCormack will also work to the BA’s Advisory Council.