The British Damage Management Association (BDMA) has set out a new strategy programme for the year ahead, following the appointment of chairman Neal Courtney.

Courtney said the strategy would build on the achievements of the past 12 months, but that the organisation now needed to take the lead in representing the interests of the recovery and restoration industry.

The overall strategy includes:
· Promoting the BDMA across all sectors relating to damage and management services.
· Investigate, with relevant sectors and organisations, options to act as a conduit for communication on claims/damage management issues, to the greater benefit of the industry as a whole.

Commenting on the strategy programme, Courtney said: "I firmly believe they set out a clear direction for the BDMA which will move the association forward to a different level and contribute to a wider understanding of the industry."

Along with the appointment of Courtney, other changes to the executive committee include Bob Spencer becoming BDMA vice chair, and outgoing chairman Jim White remaining as the second vice chair for the year. Richard Cable becomes the new chair of finance.