As the National Rifle Association of the UK (NRA UK) marks the 10th anniversary of its trusted partnership with Lithuanian ammunition manufacturer GGG, a new chapter begins under the leadership of Simon Lee MBE. Appointed as Secretary General during the 156th Imperial Meeting at Bisley, Simon steps into a role steeped in tradition while bringing a fresh perspective to the future of competitive shooting. In this exclusive conversation, he reflects on his early impressions, the role of GGG in enabling high-level performance across all levels of shooters, and how this strategic alliance has proven resilient, reliable, and essential for shaping the next generation of marksmanship talent.

GGG: You recently stepped into the role as Secretary General of NRA UK. What are your first impressions of the organisation’s long-term partnerships – particularly the one with GGG? As the newly appointed Secretary General of the NRA UK, how has your experience been so far leading such a prestigious organisation?

Simon Lee (SL): I joined at the start of the 156th Imperial Meeting, which was both an exciting and intense time to come on board, an ideal opportunity to see Bisley at its very best. It’s easy to understand why our range complex is world-renowned. During the Imperial, Bisley truly comes alive, welcoming shooters and families from across the UK and around the world.

What struck me most was not just the passion for competition, but the camaraderie, the excitement across the camp and the warm hospitality that makes Bisley unique. Whether it’s first-time visitors or long-standing members, the friendships forged and renewed here each year are the heart of this place.

Our partnerships, including GGG, are a key part of that experience. During this year’s Imperial, our collaboration ensured competitors from seasoned marksmen to first-time youth entrants had access to reliable ammunition.

GGG: Could you please briefly introduce this year’s event – could you share how many participants took part in this year’s NRA UK matched and how that compares to previous years?  What were your general impressions of this year’s matches – from the level of competition to the overall organisation?

SL: At this year’s Imperial Competition we welcomed around 2,000 shooters, which was similar to previous years, and 20% were female, with participants from 8 countries joining us. That international presence added a wonderful dimension to the competition and even a few friendly rivalries.
A particularly encouraging sign was the strong turnout in the youth categories. We saw an increase in the number of young competitors and 40% of our cadet shooters were female, some of whom were making their debut at Bisley. That enthusiasm and drive from our younger members brings a fresh energy to the ranges and ensures the sport continues to grow. The level of sportsmanship and mutual respect across the ranges really set the tone for the entire event. 

We are equally fortunate to have an exceptionally experienced Competitions department. Their meticulous planning ensured that everything from logistics to match timing ran seamlessly. It’s not just the competitions team, the entire NRA staff play a role in making the Imperial possible. From maintenance and facilities to membership services and accommodation, every department works together to create a welcoming and well-run experience for competitors and visitors alike.

 

GGG: Stepping into an organisation with such a long legacy – how do you balance respecting tradition while also bringing fresh perspectives as a new leader?

SL:  I was lucky to have a smooth handover with Andrew Mercer, alongside the full support of our Trustees. That helped me quickly get up to speed and develop a deeper understanding of the Association.
In my previous roles with similar high-profile membership organisations, I’ve led transformational change programmes while safeguarding the traditions and values that matter most.

Here at Bisley, certain traditions for example the Chairing ceremony, is deeply symbolic for our members and will always remain a fixture. 

GGG: You’ve been in your role at NRA UK for just about a month now. What has surprised you the most so far – in a good way?

SL: The energy and commitment of our staff have been truly inspiring. Hosting an event that spans more than a month requires meticulous coordination and our team rises to the challenge every time.

I’ve also been struck by the passion and determination of our younger shooters. Encouraging youth participation is a key strategy for us, and seeing that next generation compete with such skill and focus is genuinely impressive. Many of them train year-round, balancing their sport with school and other commitments and their dedication is a reminder that the future of shooting is in very capable hands. Talking to them about what inspires them to compete and hearing the pride they take in representing their clubs, has been one of the real highlights of my first month.

GGG: Since 2015, all official competition ammunition used at NRA UK events has been supplied by GGG. From your perspective, what are the key reasons this partnership has remained so consistent? From your perspective, what value does GGG ammunition bring to the shooters and the competition itself?

SL: It’s been a genuinely collaborative relationship, built on a shared commitment and drive to provide both quality and affordability to our members. Both organisations take a practical, solutions-focused approach, which means we can adapt quickly to changing needs and requirements.
For instance, when supply chains were under pressure, we worked together to ensure our members still had access to the ammunition they needed. That experience reinforced the trust and resilience of our GGG partnership. For the shooters, this translates into consistency; they know they can rely on the availability of GGG products that they require to compete at their best.

GGG: This year marks the 10th anniversary of cooperation between GGG and NRA UK. How do you see this relationship developing over the next decade?

SL: We want to continue partnering with organisations that share our mission and values. For example; if in ten years’ time, we can say we’ve played a role in nurturing the next generation of talent, while still serving the needs of our long-standing members, then we’ll have created a legacy worth celebrating. Our partnership is strong, adaptable and firmly rooted in shared purpose and I believe it will only grow stronger in the years ahead.

See official photos of the event here.