British Footwear Association names Ian Cartwright as new Chief Executive

The British Footwear Association announced on 23 April that Ian Cartwright will become Chief Executive Officer with effect from 6 May. Cartwright joins from Mahabis, where he serves as Chief Operating Officer.

He succeeds Richard Shetliffe, who has led the BFA for two years and is credited with stabilising the organisation through a period of change for both the Association and the wider industry. Cartwright brings senior experience across wholesale, retail, and direct-to-consumer footwear, with a track record across operational and commercial transformation.

The Association said the appointment positions the BFA for its next phase, building on the foundations laid during Shetliffe's tenure and giving the trade body a leader with deep sector knowledge as members navigate cost pressures and changing consumer behaviour.