Sarah Ward reflects on her 20 years in the gift industry, to include almost nine as ceo of The Giftware Association.
“This October marks my milestone 20 years in the gift industry, something I am, of course, hugely proud to celebrate. Having spent my career working in the corporate world, where I held senior positions, as well as in the wholesale sector as a director of a successful major greeting card and giftwrap publisher, I truly feel that today, I’m where I was meant to be.”
Continues Sarah: “When I was offered the opportunity to take the helm of The Giftware Association almost a decade ago – it’s nine years this October – it was not only a far cry from my previous roles but also my experience. It meant joining a non-profit organisation for the first time and navigating my way along a new and unfamiliar career path, but from the get-go I was determined to put my own professional stamp on the role.
“For example, a stipulation of my taking the job was changing the GA’s branding, and today, nothing gives me greater pleasure, or is more humbling, than seeing the instantly recognisable Gift of the Year logo in print and online, as well as prominently displayed on stands at trade shows up and down the country, and in a growing number of retail outlets too.”
Adds Sarah: “And on the subject of the Gift of the Year competition, it has, of course, grown exponentially over the past few years – a huge shout out to our PR and marketing manager Chris Workman! – elevating it to another level. The ever-increasing number of entries we receive each year is certainly a testament to that, and I’m proud to say that we now have a panel of around100 judges.
“Additionally, to be at the helm of a non-profit organisation for almost a decade has meant looking for interesting collaborations where we’re able to give more than we take in monetary terms. Through my previous business experience, I’m able to offer support and advice to all types of businesses, from a fledgling start-up to a multi-£million company.
“Our aim as a trade body is to help, inspire, innovate and, most importantly, support and relate to companies in the gift industry through the vast educational resources we offer – 130 pieces of content and counting. There are also our many events, our webinars, plus so much else besides. It feels good to know that every piece of advice we offer, and which is implemented, can make a positive difference to someone’s business. Companies can really see the benefits of membership, regarding the GA as a very valuable business tool.
“Over the past nine years, I like to think that the GA has become a brand that has filled its shoes and more, with a right to be at the party. Along with team members Chris, Victoria and Alina, we feel extremely proud to be making ourselves ever more relevant in the gift industry and to really belong in it. When we walk round a trade show, people know who we are.”
As Sarah points out: “It has, of course, been achieved one step at a time, but when we look back, we can really see how far we’ve come as an organisation, and as a team. It’s uplifting and rewarding to see and hear about the tangible difference we have made and are continuing to make. Every day continues to be a learning curve, and as I celebrate my 20 years in the gift industry, I feel very inspired in taking the next steps for the GA as its proud ceo, building on the association’s many successes.”
Email: sarah.ward@ga-uk.org
This article is featured in the September issue of Progressive Gifts & Home. To read the issue CLICK HERE.
Above: Sarah Ward, ceo of The Giftware Association, is celebrating 20 years in the gift industry.
