After a gap of more than two years without a National Executive Officer, the National Association of Memorial Masons, based in Rugby, has appointed Philip Potts to the post.

The position was left vacant after Lisa Jones left to have a baby in 2010 and did not return, although the Executive Committee of members left running the organisation had the help of Lisa's predecessor, Ian Gostling, who retired from the post in 2009 but remained working with NAMM as its part-time Business Development Office until he died unexpectedly in May 2011. 

The Executive Committee has now found the replacement it wanted in Philip Potts, whose background is as an operational officer with Leicestershire Fire & Rescue Service, including several years as the Training and Development Centre Manager.

Last year he worked in the Olympic Stadium, from the licensing phase and during both the Olympic and Paralympic games. He worked in the Event Control Room alongside the Local Authority Emergency Services and was part of a team covering emergency response within the stadium.

He told NSS: "I am delighted to be appointed the new Executive Officer with NAMM and look forward to being part of a team that cares passionately about their profession."

He says his plan for the year ahead includes working towards:

• Building relationships with other organisations on behalf of NAMM members
• Reviewing training and development
• Launching a new website to direct business to members
• Holding more roadshows

He adds: "I hope to carry on the outstanding work of my predecessor and provide direction and attention to the fundamental principles of the Association to further the memorial masonry industry and safeguard the interests of the bereaved through the promotion of high standards, wide choice and increased understanding in all matters relating to natural stone memorials; to give assistance and support to member companies and to promote their interests."