CHSA appoints new Secretary as Linda Belcher steps down

The Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association (CHSA), is saying a heartfelt thank you to Linda Belcher who has stepped down as the Association’s Secretary after many years of service.

Lorraine Francis, who has a strong track record in managing membership organsiations, has been appointed to succeed Belcher in running the Secretariat.

Belcher’s contribution has been fundamental to the evolution of the CHSA’s respected Accreditation Schemes for manufacturers and distributors of cleaning and hygiene products, which guarantee ‘what’s on the box is what’s in the box’.  She has facilitated the smooth and professional operation of the Schemes throughout her tenure, in particular including early in her time in post when the criteria of the schemes were enhanced, and the rigour of the auditing process increased.

Lorcan Mekitarian, Chair of the CHSA, thanked Belcher for her service.  “I speak on behalf of everyone on our governing Council and the members we represent when I say we are very grateful for the incredibly valuable contribution Linda has made to the CHSA.  Linda has been integral to operation of our valued and respected Accreditation Schemes, delivering for Schemes members and buyers of cleaning and hygiene products.  

“She has been responsible for delivering our hugely successful annual Gala Ball and charity golf day, which together have raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity during her period in post.  She has also been active in running our Undergraduate Bursary Schemes and participating in the assessment process.  

“We are sad to see her go but wish her the very best for the future.”

Belcher is being succeed in the post by Francis.  New to the cleaning industry, Francis is very experienced in running membership organisations. She was Executive Director of the professional services membership organisation Birmingham Forward and is now running the membership organisation Coventry & Warwickshire First. She is also a Council Member of Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, a Trustee of the Birmingham Civic Society and was a member of Common Purpose Birmingham’s Advisory Group.

Mekitarian said: “Lorraine is bringing a great deal of expertise to our Association.  We look forward to welcoming her on board.”