The International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association U.K. has appointed Ryan Beaird as its new membership services manager.

In his new role, Beaird will be the first point of call for LIMA’s U.K. members, offering day-to-day support on specific business issues as well as industry news and information. Beaird will also take over the management of LIMA U.K.’s educational events such as Spring Fling and presence at Brand Licensing Europe in October.

After spending his early career in finance, Beaird shifted his focus in 2008 and pursued his passion for cartooning when he set up a greeting card company and developed his own cartoon series called Jack and Runty.

“We are pleased to welcome Ryan, who brings considerable skills to the association, not least in terms of financial management and his experience of children’s animation, plus his knowledge of the licensing industry and printed media. This will be extremely valuable as we continue to expand and spread the word about licensing,” says Kelvyn Gardner, managing director, LIMA U.K.