Celebrating 70 Years of Institute of Directors Membership for Michael Bogod
The Institute of Directors (IoD) is proud to celebrate a monumental milestone for Michael Bogod, who marks his 70th year as a member. At 96 years old, Michael’s dedication and contributions to both his family business and the IoD have left an indelible mark on the business community.
Michael Bogod’s family business journey began in 1895, when his grandfather Joseph Bogod established Bogod Group Ltd amidst the backdrop of anti-Semitic pogroms in Russia. Seeking safety, the family settled in Cardiff via Berlin and Paris. Joseph, with his sons, founded a business supplying sewing machine parts and needles to the UK’s burgeoning clothing industry.
After completing his national service in the army’s education corps, Michael joined the family business in 1949, forgoing an opportunity to study at Oxford. He stepped into a directorial role following his father’s passing in 1954, guiding the company through significant transformations, including a public listing in 1958. Under his leadership, the company expanded nationwide and diversified its operations to become a leading distributor of domestic sewing machines.
Michael’s engagement with the IoD underscored his commitment to advocating for directors, especially in South Wales. Despite conducting much of his work from London, Michael remained passionate about maintaining the company’s operations in Cardiff. One of his fondest memories of the IoD includes the organization of his honeymoon to Mallorca with his new wife in June 1955.
Richard Selby, National Chair of IoD Wales, remarked on this remarkable achievement: “Michael Bogod’s 70-year membership with the IoD is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the principles of good governance and business excellence. His legacy is an inspiration to all directors, and we are honoured to celebrate this milestone with him.”
Michael’s anniversary was celebrated at the recent Wales Director of the Year Awards on 17th May at ICC Wales.
Under Michael’s direction, Bogod Group Ltd evolved from its modest beginnings in Wood Street to expansive premises in Neville Street and Newport Road, and eventually to St Mellons in 2001. The company has continued to thrive under the leadership of Michael’s successors, maintaining its esteemed position as a leader in the domestic sewing machine and cooker appliances industries with an annual turnover exceeding £24 million.
Michael retired in 1989, passing the baton to his three sons. Although the original spare parts business was sold in 2005 due to the contracting clothing industry, new ventures in domestic appliances have flourished, ensuring the continued prosperity of Bogod Group Ltd.