Firm shifting up a gear by appointing former FA chief

In a bid to maintain its high standards of customer service, the Hemel Hempstead firm has also appointed Jon Gilbert to the new role of commercial director.

Mr Bernstein’s strong experience across multiple business sectors will support Vanarama’s management team as the business continues its rapid growth.

One of his key focuses will be helping Vanarama –which sponsors the Football Conference – make the most of the opportunities presented to the sector as a result of regulatory changes by the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) and a boom in demand from Small Medium Enterprises (SME’s), in particular the Construction sector.

Mr Bernstein has previously been chairman of Premier League champions Manchester City and is also well known for his role as FA chairman from 2011-2013. He is also currently chairman of The British Red Cross and 
Ted Baker PLC.

Meanwhile, newly appointed commercial director, Jon Gilbert, brings with him more than 20 years of experience in the leasing sector with household names such as ING, Alphabet and Lloyds TSB Autolease.

Mr Gilbert will be tasked with overseeing and improving Vanarama’s customer service and administration departments.

Having rebranded in 2013 and taken the leap to TV and radio advertising and sponsorship, Vanarama has already seen more than 120% growth in the last year.

Mr Bernstein said he is “thrilled and excited to join a business that has achieved so much in such a short space of time.”

He said: “Vanarama has such impressive growth plans and a strategy that sees them well placed to go from strength to strength.”

Andy Alderson, managing director of Vanarama, said: “These key 
appointments demonstrate our ambition, to make the most of the growing economy and exciting opportunities ahead.”