Retail industry group, the National Retail Association, has announced the appointment of Dominique Lamb as its new chief executive officer.

Mark Brodie, NRA chair, said Lamb was a dynamic and capable leader, with a strong background in industrial and employment law.

“She will already be well known to many members of the NRA and the wider retail sector through her previous role as the principal of the Association’s law firm, NRA Legal,” Brodie said.

“In this role Dominique has been closely involved with the retail industry’s review of the modern award system, and has worked closely with many members on their employment or enterprise bargaining issues.

“We believe that having Dominique step up to become the CEO, supported by a new head of NRA Legal, will further strengthen the NRA’s credentials as the nation’s leading retail legal specialist, particularly in relation to employment law.”

Before joining the NRA, Lamb had carved out a career as an industrial relations law specialist. For many years she has also used her legal training in a voluntary capacity to assist women confronting domestic violence.

She has spearheaded efforts within the NRA to raise awareness of the impact on businesses of employees dealing with domestic violence, and Brodie said the NRA Board would encourage her to continue this important advocacy in her new role.

Lamb said she welcomed the challenge of leading a national industry organisation, and added she was looking forward to continuing to work with NRA clients and retailers across the nation.

“The retail sector is a vital part of the national economy and does more than its fair share of creating jobs, particularly for part-time, casual and lower-skilled workers,” she said.

“That makes an organisation such as the NRA critically important in speaking to government about the needs of the industry, and standing up for employers.

“The NRA has a 100-year history of supporting retail businesses and representing their needs to politicians and policy makers. I am honoured to be able to continue this track record of service and success.”

Lamb’s appointment follows the recent election of former CEO Trevor Evans to the Federal Parliament as the member for Brisbane.

“The NRA congratulates Trevor, and we are certain he will also continue to be a fierce advocate for retail businesses in his new role,” Lamb said.