Head of road freight Joan Williams to retire from Freight Transport Association FTA

After almost thirty years with the Freight Transport Association (FTA), Joan Williams, Head of Road Freight and Enforcement Policy, will retire at the end of April leaving behind an impressive legacy.

Williams began her FTA career in 1982 as a tachograph inspector for what was then known as FTA’s Freightcheck service. Her work ethic, a keen eye for detail and the ability to interpret and make sense of complicated legislation and regulation, meant it was not long before she became a key member of the policy team.

James Hookham, Managing Director of Policy and Communications, said:

"Joan is a true star and possesses a rare skill which allows her to see things most other people can’t; a forensic, laser-like ability to instantly spot the missed implication in a clause that would have others reaching for the legal dictionary … and the paracetamol.

"More than this, though, Joan has embodied those virtues that FTA holds most dear – her professionalism, enthusiasm, good humour and warmth will be greatly missed by both her colleagues at FTA and the members for whom she has provided invaluable advice and support along the way."

Williams’ reputation for persistence and tenacity is well-deserved, having helped to shape the outcomes of such legislative challenges as, among other things, the Working Time Directive, the introduction of digital tachographs and the radical revision of the EU drivers’ hours regulations.

Hookham concluded:

"The words ‘encyclopaedic knowledge’, ‘expertise’ and ‘friendly support’ crop up time and again when you mention Joan to those who have worked with her and she will be sorely missed. However, Joan can rest assured that we will be scrutinising the policy that emanates from Brussels and Westminster with the same unrelenting spirit that has become Joan’s trademark over the years. We wish Joan a very happy retirement."