The chief executive of Rutland Cycling has left the company to join the Bicycle Association (BA).

David Middlemiss' seven-year spell as CEO of Rutland Cycling saw it grow from £10m to £35m turnover and from four shops to 14.

His new role, starting next month (Sept) will support the Bicycle Association's ongoing work to fully engage the retail sector in its advocacy programme to grow the cycling market, primarily by developing independent bicycle dealer (IBD) engagement in the organisation's flagship programmes - the BA Trade Network and BA Market Data Service.

David will also set out a roadmap to boost IBD representation in the BA's advocacy work.

David spent nine years in senior roles in the automotive fuel industry before moving to a teaching fellowship at the University of Exeter in 2008, researching and teaching in the emerging field of electric vehicle materials.

In 2011 he and his wife Sally led the rebranding of Rutland Cycling, resulting in an MBO, equity investment and his position as CEO, now held by his sister-in-law Karen Archer.

David said: "I'm extremely excited to join the BA at this transformative moment for cycling.

"Sally and I leave Rutland Cycling in safe hands and with many happy memories as we both pursue alternative careers.

"In my case I'm delighted to have the opportunity to bring my experience and passion to the BA mission to grow cycling for a cleaner, healthier Britain and I look forward to working with the many fantastic people within our industry to make it stronger and more influential."

Steve Garidis, BA Executive Director, added: "David will be a major asset for the BA as we support and represent IBDs and the wider industry in what may well be very challenging times ahead, not least due to the almost inevitable post-COVID recession.

"Our strategy is to make the industry ever more resilient through our IBD support and advocacy programmes, and David's expertise will be invaluable to achieve this."

The BA has played a decisive role in keeping bike shops open during the coronavirus pandemic.

The £50 repair voucher scheme was also a BA suggestion and the organisation remains in close dialogue with Government as it works towards spending the £2 billion now committed to growing cycling in the UK - including a commitment to support the growth of e-bikes.