Moyes quits BRC for top NHS job

British Retail Consortium director general Bill Moyes is leaving next year after three years in the job.

He will become the independent regulator of the NHS Foundation Trusts, a role arising from the controversial Government hospitals initiative.

Moyes cited a strengthened team and more effective organisation, as well as greater influence in the corridors of power, among his achievements at the BRC.

'I'm probably most proud of stopping the Rip-off Britain campaign in its tracks,' said Moyes. 'The Treasury, the DTI and Number 10 all recognise how important retail is to the economy.'

Improved relationships with Westminster led to the creation of the Retail Strategy Group - chaired by Asda chief executive officer Tony DeNunzio and attended by various Government representatives - which will report in March.

Moyes brushed off recent bad press, such as fashion giant Arcadia's decision to leave the BRC and the consequent possibility that Marks & Spencer may withhold data from the organisation's Sales Monitor.

One retailer familiar with the BRC said: 'Moyes has made an effort to broaden the income base and brought a more systematic approach to the organisation. The status of the BRC with the Government has improved as a result.'

However, he added: 'He's been less successful at communicating with the retailers that provide the BRC's income. Membership retention is a critical objective.'

- Leader: page 11.