Running Industry Alliance (RIA) has announced that Ben Lee has joined its core team as Project Development Manager.

Ben becomes part of the team alongside Co-Leads Rebecca Richardson and Jonathan Midwood, RIA UK & Ireland Advisory Associate Phil Benton, and Membership Development Manager Dan Keeley.

Ben joins RIA with 15 years’ experience in the running industry across retail, brand and distribution. Following a degree and master’s degree in Sustainability and Environmental Economics, Ben’s commercial experience has taken him through recruitment, IT and property businesses, before finding his place in the running industry. As Retail Director he led Run 4 It to become a multiple award-winning retailer and brought goodr, Knog and COROS to the UK run and outdoor markets.

In 2020 Ben complemented his degree with a course in Sustainable Leadership and Corporate Responsibility at the London School of Business, driving his vision of a more sustainable running industry. Ben wants to make a significant difference in the UK and global running community, raising awareness and contributing to reducing the impact the sports industry has on the natural world so we can leave a legacy for future generations.

His role as Project Development Manager at RIA will see Ben working closely with Rebecca and Jonathan to support running specialty retailers and to bridge the gap between brands and retailers. Ben’s knowledge in regards to Sustainability Leadership and Corporate Responsibility will be a key project development area for RIA and its members.

Co-Leads Rebecca and Jonathan commented: “We are excited to welcome Ben to the team, and we are looking forward to working with Ben on a number of important projects. Ben’s background covering retail, brand and distribution sees him well placed to help us support the running specialty retailers, and his skills and enthusiasm for the running industry and sustainability will be a great asset to RIA and its members.”

Running Industry Alliance is a National Trade Organisation built for the UK & Ireland Running Industry with the aim to collectively help its Members to drive the Running Industry forward to improve the Sport and Business of Running. With a not-for-profit Membershipstructure and a not-for-profit members-only B2B Running Conference, RIA brings together different sectors of the Running Industry with members including brands, retailers, events, media, communities, charities, service providers and more.

The Alliance Partners are key sector partners across industries including associations, alliances, not-for-profit and NGB’s who help build bridges and connections to benefit Members of RIA in the UK, Ireland and globally.

Further details about the Running Industry Alliance, membership and all other info can be found on this website and the LinkedIn company page.