A NATIONAL trade body is drawing on the skills and insight of a former Army logistics professional with Wyre Forest connections to drive forward best practice across the multi-billion-pound construction industry supply chain.

The BMF (Builders Merchants Federation) has appointed Alan Harvey, group transport director for Harlow Timber Group which includes Harlow Timber Centre Kidderminster on Hoobrook Industrial Estate, as sector chair of its transport and distribution forum.

The appointment comes ahead of Armed Forces Week 2024 from June 24 until 29.

Representing 950 merchant and supplier companies, with combined sales of £45.3bn and just under 200,000 employees, BMF members, including those in Kidderminster, are a major contributor to the UK’s logistics and distribution economy.

John Newcomb, CEO of the BMF, said: “As the nation gears up to mark Armed Forces Week, Alan’s appointment is a great example of how veterans can bring vital skills into the private sector and make a significant contribution.

“Working towards the safest and most sustainable methods of moving building materials for suppliers and merchants in our membership is a vital part of our work as a trade body and Alan’s knowledge and expertise in this area is a huge asset to the BMF.”

Alan left the Army’s Royal Logistics Corp in 2018 with the rank of Warrant Officer Class 1.

In a career spanning 25 years in the forces, he worked around the globe and held roles including Regimental Sergeant Major, staff master driver and senior instructor at the Defence School of Transport’s Advanced Training Wing.

His time in service featured some significant milestones, including head of fleet for the British Army in London and surrounding areas, where he led logistic policy, contract management and training covering 164 sites and 2,000 vehicles.

Alan was also the British Army’s transport manager for the London Olympic Games, responsible for fleet optimisation and road safety, as well as transport advisor for Royal Parades and State Events and military transport manager for the capital’s annual Lord Mayor’s Show.

After leaving the Army Alan joined the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) as head of auditing before he moved into building materials supply, joining Travis Perkins Group as the compliance and road risk manager helping them to better measure, manage and reduce road risk.

In 2020 he joined Harlow Timber Group and has been a key member of the BMF Transport Working Group since then.

As sector chair, Alan leads a committed group that delivers a pan-industry approach to best-in-class transport and distribution initiatives in building materials supply.

Alan said: “As we approach Armed Forces Week, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on the incredible opportunities and skills I developed in the Army and how well these have been received and regarded by my employer, the BMF and the wider building materials supply sector.

“I’ve been able to actively contribute in the areas of road safety, the sharing of best practice and the professional development of my peers.”