Institute welcomes Hazel Morley, Chief Executive of the Society of Master Saddlers, as President

The IofAM is pleased to welcome incoming President Hazel Morley, Chief Executive of the Society of Master Saddlers. Hazel Morley takes over from Paul Neale, CEO of Kingston Smith Association Management (KSAM), who remains an active member of the Board. The Institute was also delighted to welcome Michael Hoare, CEO of the National Association of Goldsmiths, as its Vice President.

"The Institute has always been committed to providing excellent value for money. During my term as President, I look forward to seeing more activities taking place and to developing the Institute further"
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The Institute is also pleased to welcome Janette Pauline Gulleford, Managing Director and training consultant of Professional Solutions as its newest Board member.

New Cavendish Club - special Institute member rate

IofAM members are eligible for special annual membership rates to the
New Cavendish Club - an elegant private venue in the heart of London’s West End.

> Find out more

Preventing and resolving disputes in your organisation

The Institute welcomed delegates and top industry professionals on 23 June 2009 for the latest in its industry seminars highlighted case studies and best practice key to helping associations resolve organisational disputes and conflicts.

John Taylor, Chief Executive of Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service - ACAS, started off his overview of the nature of the dispute resolution process, specifying how the procedure has been affected by the recent Employment act. He commented: "Don’t rely on hearsay; it is essential to gather all the necessary facts and to listen carefully" as essential first steps in the mediation process.

David Richbell, commercial mediator and trainer, offered an experience-based presentation to discuss the nature of commercial disputes that occur between customer and retailer. "People see the same events and facts through different eyes," he commented - a common reaction which must be taken into account in order to establish a neutral ground as the basis for discussion and cooperation. He further emphasised that "avoiding disputes is the best way of resolving them".

Beccie D’Cunha, of TCM Solutions offered useful skills and tips on how to identify disputes early and resolve them quickly. "There are opportunities in conflicts, if approached in the right way; many things can be learned by both parties."

The seminar was followed shortly by the new members’ Summer Social in the elegant surroundings of venue partner Park Plaza County Hall.

> Seminar report
> Presentation materials
> Press Release

Online CPD Partner

The Institute's is re-launching its online CPD programme - a flexible, accessible learning setup for anyone working in association management and a way to gain valuable, recognised credentials.

This modular learning system divides learning into manageable chunks and works around your schedule.

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> Please contact us for more details regarding previously available courses