After almost 19 years as TFWA President, Erik-Juul Mortensen has decided not to run for re-election when his term expires in mid-December, TRBusiness can confirm.

The Board and Management Committee of TFWA have been informed and accept ‘with enormous regret’ the decision.

Juul-Mortensen, one of the seven Founders of the non-profit making organisation in 1984 and a board member until he took the leadership in September 1999, has played a hugely important role in shaping the association and its activities.

Speaking to TRBusiness today [26 June], Juul-Mortensen said: “Having been the President for almost 19 years, I have decided that the time is right [to stand down], and I do that knowing that the Association is in great shape with a strong and dedicated team, and a very committed Board to oversee things.

‘MUCH TO ACHIEVE’

He added that with six months remaining before his term expires – and much still to achieve – it would be premature at this point to reflect on his time as President and his future plans.

“At this point it is important for us, in addition to communicating my decision, to comment on our rules and regulations and our process for election of a new President, to give potential candidates the necessary time to consider their candidature,” he made clear.

Juul-Mortensen served as Vice President from 1986 to 1997. The TFWA Management Committee unanimously re-elected him as President on a 12-month term last December, in line with convention.

Accordingly, the President can be elected from within the Management Committee or externally should the candidate demonstrate the relevant experience and knowledge.

Members of the Management Committee have until the opening of the meeting on 14 December to present candidates.

Applications from those outside the Management Committee are to be sent in writing and received at least four weeks prior to the meeting.

These can be sent to the Election Committee at TFWA, 23-25 rue de Berri, 75008 Paris, France.