OREANDA-NEWS. September 20, 2011. DIXY Group president Ilya Yakubson has been appointed by unanimous resolution of the ACORT (the Association of Companies of Retail Trade) governing board to become its new chairman.

Lev Khasis, who held the post since 2007, has resigned in order to serve as senior vice president for international operations at Walmart, the world's largest retailer.

Lev Khasis, who will remain a member of the ACORT governing board, provided the following statement on the appointment:

"ACORT plays a vital role in the Russian retail sector, as evidenced by both quality of dialogue with our country's leaders and constantly growing membership. I am confident that Ilya Yakubson will be extremely effective in working to solve key retail issues and looking out for the interests of ACORT's membership."

Ilya Yakubson added:

"ACORT represents and advances the interests of the Russian retail business, and for me heading the association is a great honor and a great responsibility. The association has achieved substantial success over the years in cultivating a mature retail sector in Russia. Nonetheless, much work lies ahead for us in further developing the industry and having market participants come together on progressive and fair business principles."

Ilya Yakubson graduated with a degree in history from Russia's Orel State University. In addition to being a PhD in Sociology, he obtained an MBA at the Business School of Kingston University, London. He has served as the general director of the PALLADA Group of Companies since 1997. 2006-2007 - Vice President, MEGAPOLIS Trading Company (MERCURY Group). February 2008 to present - Vice President, DIXY Group. February 2009 to present - President, DIXY Group of Companies.