Bear IT’s managing director Adam Harris has left the reseller to take up the chief executive post at trade body the Technology Channels Association (TCA).

TCA stalwart Keith Warburton takes on the new role of president to make way for Harris, who co-founded Nottingham-based Bear IT in 2003.

Harris was named as the Midlands’ Young Director of the Year 2008 along with his business partner Mark Lambert – who will now take the managing director role at Bear IT.

The TCA reckons that Harris' experience running a reseller will stand him in good stead for his new role.

The TCA is an amalgamation of the Professional Computing Association (PCA) and Mac Technology Association (MCA). Part of Harris’ role will be to develop the TCA’s presence in the digital technology arena.

Harris said: “I am a firm believer in trade association membership, especially in challenging times, and one of my first tasks will be to further develop the tangible benefits, both for resellers and channel suppliers.”

Warburton, whose new role will focus on industry issues and government, said: “The bigger we get the more work there is to be done, and I cannot think of anyone more able than Adam to share the load. Choosing him to fill this role was a unanimous decision; he is well liked and respected by all who know him.”

Harris has relinquished his directorship at Bear IT but remains a shareholder in the firm.