NAJ and BATF Prepare for Upcoming AGMs with Leadership Announcement and Formal Notice of Meetings

14 May 2024

The British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) and the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) have shared further details about their respective annual general meetings (AGMs), which will be held on the afternoon of June 6, 2024, at the historic Tower of London.

Current BATF President Henrik Skouby will formally hand over duties to incoming President Gert Schyberg, the Founder and Managing Director of Sebnini Trading Ltd. Originally from Denmark, Schyberg has been on the Giftware Association’s National Committee for 15 years and has served as both Chairman and an Officer for the past six years. His professional expertise across finance, procurement, manufacturing, strategy and management earned him a King’s Award for International Trade in 2023.

Outgoing President Henrik Skouby says,

“I have no doubt that Gert will have a positive influence on the British Allied Trades Federation as it enters this new era under his leadership. As a hugely capable businessman and a well-versed Director on the BATF Board, Gert has the experience, knowledge and connections to drive us forward and seek out new opportunities. I wish him all the best in his new position.”

 

For the NAJ, current Chair Heather Callaway will hand over the reins to incoming Chair Adam Jacobs, who has served as Vice Chair since 2022. As the joint owner of the award-winning independent family business, Jacobs the Jewellers, in Reading, Jacobs has been dedicated to high street retailing since 2003 and became an NAJ volunteer in 2016. He initially helped to introduce a marketing and promotions sub-group before being invited to join the National Committee in 2020. He also serves as Chair of R.E.D.A., Reading's Economy + Destination Agency, and is a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths.

Ahead of handing over responsibilities, Callaway comments:,

“Having worked with Adam as Vice-Chair of the NAJ, I know for certain that he will offer the same energy and enthusiasm when he starts his tenure as Chair in June. As a retailer himself, Adam has first-hand experience of the challenges that many NAJ members face, and this puts him in a strong position to drive the Association forward. I know he will work admirably with the NAJ team to make a positive contribution.”

To prepare for the AGMs on June 6, both organisations have published a formal Notice of Meeting and their respective itineraries online. People who cannot attend in person are also invited to download the proxy form and cast their vote on key agenda points online.

The afternoon’s events will conclude with an address by The Benevolent Society Chair Gay Penfold, who will provide a short update on the charity’s activities and its recent beneficiaries. Guests will then be able to explore the British Crown Jewels on a private tour, followed by a sit-down dinner to celebrate The Benevolent Society’s 100th anniversary.

Speaking on the milestone year, Gay Penfold says,

“This is an exciting time for The Benevolent Society as we celebrate 100 years and thousands of beneficiaries who have navigated hard times with the support of their friends and colleagues in this great trade. We are thrilled that this year’s BATF AGM and dinner will be held at the Tower of London, which will also include a private tour of the Crown Jewels. We really hope to see as many people there as possible.”

To attend the AGMs, please register here.

Please note that members of the BATF and its federated trade associations are entitled to a complimentary ticket to both AGMs. Attendees will be permitted to enter the Tower of London from 9 AM on June 6 to maximise their visit to this iconic World Heritage Site.

All are welcome at The Benevolent Society dinner to celebrate its milestone centenary. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis at a cost of £175 + VAT, including a three-course meal and a private tour of the Crown Jewels. Bookings can be made here.

The Benevolent Society will also mark its 100th anniversary at its annual Ball at The Grand Hotel Birmingham on December 5, 2024. Tickets can be reserved here.

Register for the AGM

Source: National Association of Jewellers