OATA appoints new finance and office manager

The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association (OATA) has announced the appointment of Dawn Jones as its new finance and office manager, who will take over from Ray Valovec when he leaves in June.

Jones joins from a local accountancy firm where she was personal tax manager and client manager for a number of years. 

She brings her accounting and administration skills to OATA’s Westbury office, where she will be the first point of contact for anyone getting in touch with the trade body. 

In her spare time, Jones volunteers at a local horse sanctuary and enjoys horseriding.

Valovec retired from OATA after 25 years, having joined the team in March 2000. During his term he looked after all financial matters and has been the first port of call for OATA members. 

He has also organised and run OATA conferences and acted as director of the AQUA trade show during its first 10 years of operation.

Jones said: “I’m very pleased to be joining the team and am really looking forward to the variety the job promises.”

Dominic Whitmee, chief executive, said: “We are certainly going to miss Ray who has been the backbone of our office for many years. We wish him well in his retirement – he’s certainly earned it! And we are very happy to have Dawn join us. 

“She is now benefiting from a six-week handover from Ray to help her hit the ground running when he leaves. I’m sure our members will join us in making her feel welcome to the office team.”