The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has promoted Mike Smallbone to the position of head of membership development.

Smallbone joined the Federation in September 2015 and has already played an instrumental role in the its membership recruitment operation, along with raising the profile of its activities at trade events, it said in a statement.

He also spearheaded the Your Car Your Choice, a campaign designed to highlight motorists’ freedom to choose where they service, maintain and repair their vehicle.

IAAF chief executive, Wendy Williamson, said: “Mike has been extremely effective since joining IAAF and has successfully taken our message out to new and existing members.

“His promotion is richly deserved and he will continue to champion the efforts of the Federation and its members in the months and years to come.”

Smallbone has more than 35 years’ experience in the automotive industry, having enjoyed roles with Halfords, Cafco Automotive, Allparts Automotive and Parts Alliance.

In his new role as head of membership development, he will be tasked with working closer with existing IAAF members and ensuring they benefit fully from the wide range of benefits available from the Federation.

He will also be responsible for creating new initiatives, products and services that support members’ business and increase the awareness of IAAF’s wide-ranging activities.

Smallbone said: “I’ve been delighted to get heavily involved in all IAAF activities and take a very strong message out to the automotive industry.

“The IAAF is a trade association that provides real support for its membership and aggressively champions the rights of the independent automotive aftermarket. I look forward to playing a key role in its future membership development.”