Kohler’s global chief innovation officer, Craig Baker, has been announced as the BMA’s new president, and has laid out an ambitious agenda for his time in the role.
Baker was announced as the incoming president at the BMA’s recent annual general meeting. Stepping into the role, he will succeed Jason Parker, who is also the managing director of Thomas Dudley.
Entering the industry as a design engineer at Mira Showers in 1997, Baker’s career spans more than 27 years, during which the BMA says he has established himself as a leader of the bathroom manufacturing sector. Baker was appointed as Kohler’s CIO for the UK in January of this year.
During his first address in the role of BMA president, Baker thanked Parker for his leadership and commitment during his time in the role. He said: “Working alongside him as vice President has been an incredible experience, and I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of his vision on our industry. It is an honour to follow in his footsteps, and I am committed to building on the strong foundation he has laid.”
The BMA also laid out its roadmap for the next two years. At its heart, the BMA said it has three core priorities: reducing environmental impact, raising industry standards, and market growth and understanding.
To further support these goals, the BMA also says it is planning to enhance its data pooling and reporting capabilities, as well as increasing its lobbying efforts to ensure that government policies align with the interests of the bathroom manufacturing sector.
Emphasising his belief that the association will meet its ambitious goals, Baker said: “The BMA is committed to being the driving force for positive change in our industry. Over the next two years, we will not only meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving market but seize opportunities for growth and innovation.
“We will focus on sustainability, improving standards, and helping our members thrive in a competitive landscape. Together, we will shape the future of bathroom manufacturing.”
Tom Reynolds, chief executive of the BMA, agreed with Baker, adding: “Under Craig’s leadership, we have a clear path to enhance further the benefits we offer to our members.
“From expanding our presence at key industry events like InstallerSHOW in the UK and KBIS in the USA to influencing policy decisions directly impacting our sector, we are committed to delivering on our mission to support our members and grow the bathroom manufacturing industry.”
Earlier this year, the BMA oversaw the UK Pavilion at this year’s KBIS event in Las Vegas. The pavilion saw UK bathroom brands such as Thomas Crapper, Crofts & Assinder and Senstec promoting their products and design ethos to American retailers and designers.
In June, the BMA also had a heavy presence at the Installer Kitchens & Bathrooms area at this year’s InstallerSHOW, which included its hosting of the Future of Water theatre.
