BIFA undergoes restructuring in policy and compliance team following key retirements

BIFA, the British International Freight Association, is in the midst of a significant restructuring within its policy and compliance team following the retirement of David Stroud, who previously served as the association's policy and compliance adviser for air cargo. The restructuring outlines a strategic transition to ensure continuity and the enhancement of services provided to its members in response to the evolving needs of the logistics sector.

In this reorganisation, Pawel Jarza has been appointed to succeed Stroud. Jarza already has a strong presence within the BIFA community, having served as the frontier policy manager where he cultivated valuable relationships with BIFA members. With a master’s degree in International Trade Relations from the University of Wroclaw and over two decades of experience in the logistics industry focused on Customs compliance, Jarza's expertise positions him well to take on the new responsibilities associated with Stroud's former role.

Taking on the specific area of Customs and frontier issues, Igor Popovics has been designated the role of policy and compliance adviser – Customs. Having joined BIFA in 2022 after a tenure at the London Chamber of Commerce as an export documents and customs declaration officer, Popovics brings a wealth of knowledge to his new position. His familiarity with Rules of Origin and Carnets adds to the robust framework of BIFA's policy initiatives in managing Customs-related challenges.

Also notable in this restructuring is the promotion of Jamie McKean to policy adviser – Sustainable Logistics. A law graduate from the University of Reading, McKean joined BIFA in 2023 as a management trainee, and his recent ascent within the organisation underscores the growing focus on sustainability within the logistics sector. His role will involve close collaboration with Mike Jones, who serves as the policy & compliance adviser – sustainability & environment.

In 2023, BIFA initiated a policy group aimed at identifying and addressing environmental and sustainability issues that may affect its members' operations. This group is critical as businesses within the logistics chain grapple with the increasing importance of sustainability initiatives. Many members are at various stages of developing their policies concerning environmental matters, and they are looking to BIFA for guidance and insights. McKean's promotion reflects the essential role of the Sustainable Logistics policy group in navigating these complexities.

The restructured policy and compliance team at BIFA aims to equip its members with the necessary tools and knowledge to manage the pressing issues within the logistics sector. With the appointments of Jarza and Popovics, alongside McKean's promotion, BIFA is poised to provide tailored support to its members, ensuring their compliance with Customs regulations and addressing the critical challenges of sustainability in logistics.

These changes come at a crucial time for the sector as it continues to adapt to operational shifts and regulatory requirements. BIFA’s efforts reflect a proactive approach to ensure that its members are well-supported and informed in the face of these ongoing challenges.