Sarah Percy-Davis, who has been the Chief Executive of LAPADA, the largest association of Art and Antiques dealers in the UK, for some ten years, is stepping down in March. Sarah joined LAPADA at a very difficult time and has rightly been credited as having transformed the association into a world class organisation. “Her dedication, vision and inspiring leadership will be deeply missed”. stated Chairman, Lord Chadlington. The search for the next Chief Executive has begun and LAPADA hope to find a successor capable of capitalising on Sarah’s immense progress.
Deborah Rhodes, LAPADA’s Company Secretary for the past 17 years, has also retired. In this time she has worked with one President, three Chairmen, three Chief Executives, dozens of Directors and numerous staff. She is a veritable Encyclopaedia LAPADA and will be missed by many. These great changes both define the end of an era and mark the start of our exciting future. LAPADA are fortunate that Sarah has put in place a dedicated and able young team who will continue to implement LAPADA’s goals with characteristic flair and enthusiasm.
Full letter below:
Dear All,
After serving as Chief Executive of LAPADA for ten years, I have announced to the Chairman and Board of directors, that I will sadly be stepping down in March 2014. The timing is led by a family decision to relocate from Central London, to near Henley, to provide a different quality of life for our young children. It has all been rather sudden and in truth I am as surprised as many of you!
Inevitably, I leave LAPADA with a heavy heart as I hand over the reins and I would like to thank all of you who have made my time as Chief Executive so memorable and rewarding. LAPADA has been like a second family and the staff in the office, the directors and the members who have supported me over the years, will be greatly missed.
I will personally oversee the transition of a new Chief Executive to ensure a seamless hand-over of responsibilities and it is anticipated that I will remain closely involved with LAPADA as I begin my new consultancy practice. I am pleased to say that we have a strong and dynamic team in place and I am confident that they will build on the excellent foundations that we have laid together over the past 10 years. Interviews for my successor will start in mid January.
In spite of the nostalgia, I look forward to this new exciting chapter and to remaining in touch with as many of you as is possible.
The news will be announced in the ATG on 23rd December.
My thanks and best wishes for a happy Christmas and a successful 2014 for all.
Sarah