Dawn McCarthy-Simpson MBE, managing director of business development & global strategy, at UK producers’ alliance Pact, is to retire at the end of October after 16 years at the organisation.

Overseeing Pact’s international work, and more recently managing the opening of Pact’s Leeds office, McCarthy-Simpson forward thinking and strategical outlook has helped many UK indies to achieve international success.

1. Dawn McCarthy-Simpson MBE to Retire from Pact

Dawn McCarthy-Simpson to retire from Pact

Pact Chief Executive, John McVay OBE said: “Of course we wish Dawn much happiness in her retirement, but I know I speak on behalf of all our members when I say that she will be greatly missed.

“Dawn has been the lynch pin of our international work over the past 16 years and has been to MIP so many times she could call Cannes her second home.

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“Working closely with Dawn has been a pleasure as she has always focussed on the needs, ambitions and dreams of Pact members helping them to grow their businesses and have fun doing it.”

Rather than replacing McCarthy-Simpson role directly, it will be split into three, with Pact’s Head of Nations and Regions – Chris Curley – and Pact’s Project Manager – Aimee Shimmin – already in place.

Pact is then looking for a Head of International and Projects to join the Pact team. The role will report directly to McVay and will be based out of either the London or Leeds office and will involve working with members across the UK to help them develop their export potential and discover new business opportunities across key territories.

Dawn McCarthy-Simpson added: “‘I have had an amazing 16 years with my Pact family and it has given me the opportunity to get to know so many talented individuals. John has been a mentor throughout, he gave me freedom to explore new and innovative ways to help our members, which in turn has helped me to grow and develop as an individual. But now is the time to hang up my industry boots and enjoy all of the things I never had time to do whilst working.”

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