The Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) has appointed Rikesh Patel as an industry analyst.

This is a new role within the BMF and reflects the industry’s increasing demand for timely and accurate data. Mr Patel will be responsible for developing existing and new data services to members. He will also link with partner trade associations to develop detailed trading and forecast data for the whole building materials distribution sector.

Mr Patel, who recently graduated with a first-class honours degree in economics from Coventry University, will report to Richard Ellithorne, membership services director.

Mr Ellithorne said: “I am delighted to welcome Rikesh to the BMF team. He will be undertaking an important new role for the BMF. In addition to providing up-to-date information for members, his work will increase the BMF’s ability to report and comment on the performance of the building materials distribution industry in general and the merchant sector in particular, thus helping to raise the profile of our sector.”