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Bertrams commercial director Graham Rand is to leave the wholesaler at the end of January after his position was made redundant. The move follows a review of group costs and structures at senior management level. His overall responsibility for sales will pass to Roger Miah, head of sales, and his marketing duties will fall under the remit of Chris Rushby, the wholesaler's buying director.
Rand was previously general manager for books at THE before it was merged with Bertrams in September 2007.
Bertrams' managing director Michael Neil said: "Graham has made a huge contribution to Bertrams since joining in 2007 but unfortunately in a difficult market we have to make difficult decisions and it is with enormous regret that we announce Graham’s leaving.
"Graham is a very talented and highly respected book trade professional and we wish him well as he continues his career in bookselling." He said that no further redundancies were planned as a result of the review.
Rand said: "I have very much enjoyed my (brief) time at Bertrams|THE and have a high regard for all the very committed staff. Whilst I regret that it has come to an end I wish them well for the future."
Rand will continue in his role as president of the Booksellers Association. Chief executive Tim Godfray said: "Graham has taken the BA through challenging times. He is hugely respected throughout the book industry, both his knowledge and experience, his commercial mind, and, in particular, his ability to cope with change. Moreover, at the BA he has been a great chairman of meetings, listening to all points of view and coming to a clear summary.
"Consequently, we are absolutely delighted that Graham will still be able to do the last few months left of his presidency and we very much hope that during this time he will find another position in the book trade. The book trade cannot afford to lose him."