Ricability has announced that Paul Gambrell has been appointed as the new Director of the charity, following the retirement of David Yelding.
In 1999, following a successful career in the automotive industry, Paul joined the charity, Motability.
As Technical Director, he established a centre of excellence in the field of vehicular mobility for disabled people, working closely with Government and industry to improve the standards of adaptation equipment and vehicle conversions. Then, as Grants Director, Paul led the challenge of transforming Motability's grant- making into a more customer-friendly service. In April 2008, Paul became Chief Operating Officer of ATcare, establishing it as an organisation working for the development and promotion of assistive technology products in London.
Graham Corbett, Ricability's Chair of Trustees, said: "David Yelding's retirement at the end of February marks a huge milestone in Ricability's history. David was Research Director for a number of years before becoming the Director in 1995; and over 16 years has not just directed us, but moulded Ricability into his own rigorous perception of what it means to be independent, professional and thorough. All who benefit from Ricability's research and information, and all of us who have had the privilege of working alongside him, owe him an immense debt of gratitude.
I am delighted to welcome Paul Gambrell who takes over as the new Director of Ricability. Paul has had a long involvement in the field of products and services for disabled and older people. In his new role, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge of the challenges faced by both the consumer and the supplier of products in this area.”
Speaking about his appointment, Paul Gambrell said: "I am very excited to be joining Ricability at this time when ensuring that access to the type of clear, accessible information we provide on products and services for older and disabled people is more important than ever. My predecessor, David Yelding, has left me with a strong legacy on which to build and I am looking forward to exploring and expanding the important work done by Ricability.”
Ricability (Research Institute for Consumer Affairs) is a charity that carries out independent research to provide information for older and disabled consumers.