BIFA appoints Pawel Jarza to lead policy and compliance amid post-Brexit trade challenges
Jarza is familiar to many within the BIFA membership, having previously served as frontier policy manager and, more recently, as policy and compliance adviser focusing on air transport. He holds a master's degree in International Trade Relations from the University of Wroclaw and brings over 20 years of experience, primarily centred around Customs compliance. His expertise is particularly relevant as the UK navigates post-Brexit challenges, including the implementation of the Border Trade Operating Model and the Single Trade Window, crucial initiatives designed to streamline import, export, and transit obligations.
As Jarza steps into his new role, he will not only continue his work on Customs issues but will also spearhead BIFA's efforts in external lobbying and representation. This will involve close collaboration with various government departments and stakeholder groups, reinforcing BIFA’s presence and influence in discussions critical to the freight and logistics sector.
Robert Windsor, a veteran of BIFA’s senior management team, will transition to the role of senior policy adviser, focusing on surface policy matters along with legal and insurance issues. Windsor is currently leading a comprehensive review of BIFA’s Standard Trading Conditions (STC). This review process, which occurs periodically to adapt to evolving industry standards and legislative changes, has become increasingly vital in the wake of the UK’s departure from the EU. As BIFA aims to safeguard member interests against emerging risks related to trade complexities, Windsor’s leadership in updating the STC will be crucial.
Steve Parker, BIFA's director general, expressed support for this realignment, asserting that it will allow Windsor to concentrate on ensuring that the STC remains foundational for BIFA's relationships with both members and their clients. Parker stated, “The new team structure will enable us to dramatically improve our advocacy and support for members, particularly during this turbulent time in the sector.”
Adding an external perspective, BIFA will also work with SEC Newgate, its newly appointed public affairs and government relations advisor. This partnership aims to open new communication channels, thereby enhancing BIFA's advocacy efforts and capacity to represent members effectively. The current landscape, marked by heightened complexity in regulations and trade difficulties, underscores the necessity of such initiatives.
Moreover, BIFA’s commitment to bolstering member support is reflected in its proactive responses to emerging issues, such as those surrounding import duties and quotas on critical commodities like iron and steel. Recently, members voiced concerns about complications in duty collection amid the backdrop of ever-changing regulations. BIFA has encouraged members to report their experiences to Windsor, ensuring that their feedback remains confidential, which highlights the association’s dedication to navigating the intricate regulatory environment on behalf of its members.
As BIFA adapts to the ongoing shifts in the global trade climate, it remains focused on implementing robust policies that not only address current challenges but also anticipate future demands. This restructuring represents a strategic move to ensure that BIFA continues to stand at the forefront of advocacy for the UK freight and logistics sector, positioning itself as a crucial resource for its members in the years to come.