THE Swindon & Wiltshire Initiative at Business West has announced that David Battrick has joined the organisation as Initiative Manager.

Dave joins the Swindon & Wiltshire Initiative this month following a 12-year stint at the Federation of Small Businesses, where he worked as a Membership Advisor and South West Regional Sales Manager.

Prior to working at the FSB, Dave spent more than 25 years as a managing director and business owner in the retail sector.

Ian Larrard, Director of Swindon & Wiltshire Initiative at Business West, said: “I am delighted to welcome Dave to the Swindon & Wiltshire Initiative at what is a really exciting time for the team.

“Dave brings a wealth of knowledge and experience of the business environment in the region.

“Moreover, as a former managing director himself, Dave clearly has an understanding of what it takes to become a successful business leader.”

Mr Battrick said: “The Swindon & Wiltshire Initiative is an integral part of the region’s policy making and decision-taking, and I relish the opportunity to get involved in shaping the local economy and business environment.”

Business West represents more than 21,000 businesses in the South West including a network of Chambers of Commerce members in Bristol, Bath, South Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire.