His appointment was confirmed by the DEMSA board on 17th September and he will formally take up the new role from the AGM on 9th October.
Ray is Regulatory & Compliance director at Walker Morris an international law firm based in Leeds. Before that Ray spent many years in senior roles at the Office of Fair Trading where, as Head of UK Credit, he steered the organisation through the introduction of the Consumer Credit Act regime in 2006 as well as developing the regulatory system that the Act brought about.
Michael Land, outgoing chairman of DEMSA commented:
"I announced at last year's AGM that I would step down this year. As I do so I am immensely pleased to be able to pass the chairmanship of DEMSA onto Ray. He is a hugely respected figure in the industry and his commitment to high standards and best practice is well known. His decision to take on the role is both an endorsement of the progress DEMSA has made to improve quality in the sector, and a statement of intent for the organisation's future."
Ray Watson commented:
"I decided to take on the chair of DEMSA because I recognise that it commits its members to provide the highest quality of service and support to their clients. I am excited to be joining DEMSA during what will clearly be a transformational period for members and the wider sector. The Debt Management Plan Protocol, which DEMSA has embraced, launches this autumn. More significantly, the transition of debt advice and solutions into the new Financial Conduct Authority regime next year will give a further reassurance to consumers in this sector."
Richard Wharton, general secretary of DEMSA said:
"Michael has made a huge contribution to DEMSA. He was instrumental in setting it up in 2000 and has, as chairman, driven the organisation forward since then. On behalf of the whole membership I'd like to thank Michael for his hard work and dedication."
