Business | Posted on December 13th, 2024 | return to news
Dorset Chamber sets out plans for year ahead
The Chamber held its annual meeting at which it promised its support for local businesses in this tough economic climate.
Recognising that the country is experiencing a tough economic climate, Dorset Chamber is urging businesses to stay positive.
Chief Executive Ian Girling said the Chamber’s leadership would be vital over the coming year when he spoke at its annual meeting.
Members also heard of a landmark 75th anniversary year in 2024 and of exciting new initiatives for 2025, as well as the launch of a new vision and mission statement.
Tony Brown, of Y-Not Finance, was elected for a second term as president and Gareth Sherwood, chief executive of YMCA Bournemouth, will continue as vice-president.
Ian, marking his own 11th anniversary at the Chamber, said: “After our 75th anniversary year, as we look to the future, we will continue to strand by the side of business.
“We will always seek to do our very best to support the business and foster a vibrant and prosperous community that really enhances the quality of life of all in the area.
“It is a tough economic climate out there at the moment, and trading conditions are hard.
“Employer National Insurance increases are going to be a huge challenge for business in Dorset and across the country.
“The leadership of the Chamber is really important and positivity within business is crucial. As a chamber, we really try to unite the business community and help push it forward.”
Among the highlights of 2024 were a 75th anniversary ball and the Dorset Business Festival, which attracted more than 1,000 people.
The Chamber unveiled its new vision for ‘a vibrant and prosperous Dorset business community that enhances the quality of life for all’ and mission ‘to drive the growth and prosperity of businesses as the county’s leading business support and representative organisation’.
Plans for 2025 include leadership and sales programmes, continued development of such initiatives as its Future Leaders Forum, and such programmes as its Campfire initiative with the Intergage Group to help businesses harness the power of AI.
The Chamber, which operates as a not-for-profit SME business with no local authority or government grants, is also seeking to develop new income streams. Any money it receives from councils or partners is won through a competitive tender process.
Ian thanked all of the Chamber’s valued members for their support, including business partners, sponsors of events, BCP Council, Dorset Council, education providers and other partners as well as the Chamber’s staff, ambassadors and board members.
Tony said: “I am honoured to be continuing as your president. It is a privilege to work alongside such an amazing group pf professionals at the Chamber and its members who care deeply about supporting each other and making Dorset a better place in which to live and work.”
Other board appointments at the annual meeting included Caron Khan as past president, Helen Stacey as chairperson of the council of ambassadors, Matthew Fretten as honorary solicitor, Lesley Fox as honorary treasurer, Future Leaders Forum chairperson Toni Taylor along with Simon Boyd, Nicky Busst, Lesley Keets and Gail Polkinghorne as non-executive directors.
The annual meeting at the Highcliff Marriott Hotel in Bournemouth was followed by the Chamber’s Christmas lunch, where £1,775 was raised for Wessex Heartbeat.
Dorset Chamber is also encouraging businesses to complete its survey about the impact of forthcoming increases in employer National Insurance at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VYMZMCY.
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