The 2024 Chamber Council elections are now open, with 21 candidates applying for 11 available places on the Council.
Chamber Council is responsible for steering the work of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce 's Policy team and meets on a quarterly basis to discuss the latest national and regional political developments, vote on priority themes, and engage in constructive dialogue regarding key Chamber Policy campaigns.
Once elected, members can serve up to three consecutive three-year teams. During this time, members will promote the work of the Policy team, attend Chamber events, and share feedback from fellow Chamber members and business contacts at the Chamber Council meetings.
Important Information:
Birmingham division members are eligible to vote for up to 11 candidates. Each Birmingham member organisation may only vote once (for up to 11 candidates). If there are multiple voters from the same organisation, only the first set of votes from that organisation will be counted.
Please click on each candidate's headshot to read their supporting statement which will help inform your voting decision.
AMANDA LOWE
My firm, STORY, focuses on telling stories that matter. For me, those stories are about social impact, those that make a difference to our communities and the world around us. STORY focuses almost entirely on supporting businesses based here, with offices here or who are investing in our city. From the British Business Bank and the work it does to fund local entrepreneurs, to the Rigby Group, one of the region's most successful family firms with global operations - and plans to address the city's youth employment challenge.
I have led the PR, comms and reputation management for a number of the city's representative bodies, helping to boost our reputation on the national and international stage. From our inward investment body, Business Birmingham to our promotion as a visitor destination for Visit Birmingham, as well as business and policy groups, such as the GBSLEP.
I am passionate about shouting about Birmingham's greatness, leaning into and addressing the challenges it faces and helping businesses here to grow and create much needed opportunity for our next generation.
Andrew Dawson
I've thoroughly enjoyed my time on the Council supporting the Chamber team, as well as getting the opportunity to contribute to some of the big issues, opportunities and challenges affecting the region.
Curium Solutions are a Patron at the Chamber, so I have the pleasure of working in partnership with Henrietta and her team. We have worked on many joint initiatives and collaborating on the Growth Through People campaigns.
As well as working with many local businesses as customers, we work closely with Acorns Children’s Hospice, where I have recently become an Ambassador for the Business Club.
Curium has been based in Birmingham since it was founded in 2008. We believe that the city offers immense opportunity for everyone in the region, and I would welcome the opportunity to continue to contribute to the Chamber by serving on the Council once more.
I am passionate about the Midlands and both of my children are growing up as proud Brummies. The region must continue to build our successes of the last years, and maintain our positivity and confidence. I also believe that greater collaboration across the East Midlands, where we are also Chamber Patrons, is a big opportunity too if we can partner and champion our cause.
Angelo Cugini
I have been actively involved in supporting the Chamber over the past three years. My account manager Paula Charles very kindly suggested that I put my name forward for consideration.
I strongly believe that the Chamber adds great value both to local companies and to help market Greater Birmingham in a positive way. I'm a passionate advocate of the importance of building the city's brand and I think that my range of experience which includes building a business from scratch, and working with both the Public and Private Sectors in senior management positions can add value and support the Chamber and the team to achieve their objectives going forward.
ANNA BRIGHT
Anna has been working with organisations to improve their sustainability for over 20 years and has a private sector background in water, waste and wastewater management, working for Severn Trent for over five years.
Anna has been Chief Executive at Sustainability West Midlands for over eight years, working with businesses, universities, colleges, local authorities, the health sector and the West Midlands Combined Authority to help shape the way that they mitigate and adapt for climate change.
Anna is on the board of the Midlands Net Zero Hub, the Midlands Engine Green Growth Board and she was a Trustee for the Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust for six years.
Anthony Tattum
As a dedicated, and seasoned business leader with deep roots in Birmingham, I am passionate about driving positive change within our local business community. My experience as a CEO has equipped me with a robust understanding of the challenges and opportunities businesses face in our city and across the region. I am committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth, ensuring that the Chamber continues to be a vital resource for all its members. My vision is to enhance support for small and medium-sized enterprises, advocate for sustainable business practices, and promote Birmingham as a thriving hub for commerce and innovation.
Chris Golby
As Founder of Lumien, I bring a deep understanding of the Birmingham business landscape and a passion for policy that drives growth. My active involvement in Chamber policy events, including roundtables with the West Midlands Business Commission and contributing to the Health Foundation report at both local (Warwickshire) and national levels, demonstrates my commitment to shaping the future of our region.
My experience in media and communication, coupled with my current focus on the future of work through my podcast and book, equips me to effectively advocate for the Chamber’s policy agenda. I am particularly keen to contribute on issues surrounding people, culture, tech, and AI, ensuring Birmingham remains at the forefront of innovation and inclusive growth.
I am eager to serve as a bridge between the Chamber and the wider business community, promoting constructive dialogue and driving positive change.
COLIN FYFE
Colin Fyfe is the Chief Executive of Unity Trust Bank plc. He has led financial services firms for 10 years through his roles as Chief Executive Officer at Hinckley & Rugby Building Society and Darlington Building Society. This followed a 29 year banking career with the National Australia Bank Group, with the majority of this time spent at Clydesdale and Yorkshire Bank. His experience covered corporate, commercial, private, and retail banking and leadership positions spanning marketing, people, sales, and risk teams across these sectors.
Colin holds a Non-Executive Director position with Ahead Partnership, a purpose-driven business which supports young people to improve their careers outcomes.
Colin is a Fellow of the Institute of Bankers in Scotland.
David Abosch
With two decades in business and IT consultancy, I have a proven track record in driving digital transformation and post-merger integration for global corporations. As founder of ReCognition Circular CIC, I've combined my expertise in AI and sustainable technology with a passion for community impact. My work focuses on regenerative and circular business models, equipping the workforce for a net zero economy, and bridging the gap between education and industry. I am eager to leverage this experience to champion responsible technology, address digital inclusion, and foster a circular economy within our local business community.
DR BEVERLY LINDSAY OBE OD
Beverly Lindsay a former Nurse/Midwife and Community Worker, founder of Diamond Travel, an esteemed international travel agency and shipping agent, has led her business to an impressive success since its 1987 inception. Beyond her entrepreneurial prowess, Beverly serves as a notable mentor and advocate for the African Caribbean community in Birmingham, the UK, and globally.
Her unwavering commitment to business and community service, including founder and the current chair of the Association of Jamaican Nationals (Birmingham)UK, has earned her numerous accolades, including The Order of Distinction (OD) in 2008 and an Officer in the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2011.
Beverly made history as the first Afro-Caribbean woman President of the Rotary Club of Birmingham in 2012, the first Afro-Caribbean woman Deputy Lieutenant in 2013 and in 2017, the first woman Vice Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands and received Honorary Doctorates from Aston University and Birmingham City University.
EMAN AL-HILLAWI
I came to the University of Birmingham in 1987 to study and fell in love with the city and its people, so established it as my home and location of my business change consultancy, Entec Si.
As a small business, employing people from across the region, I take pride in developing our network and supporting regional anchor institutions. This has included the delivery of multiple projects and programmes for clients such as Birmingham City Council, Birmingham Airport, Aston University, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust.
Working with local organisations, as well as being an active member of networking and membership bodies, helps me keep abreast on the issues being faced by businesses. This enables me to offer insight and support and influence decisions.
Entec Si has held memberships with the GBCC including 1813, Future Faces and the 1MM, since 2015. I regularly attend Chamber events and meetings and contribute to the GBCC’s Small Business Academy and annual IWD events.
Joanna Birch
I have been active in Birmingham for over 30 years, supporting innovation and driving business growth, with specific interest in small and medium sized businesses.
As the previous Director of Innovation and Enterprise at Birmingham City University I have an excellent understanding of the skills and innovation ecosystems, directly contributing to initiatives to support business growth. As Chair of University Alliance I have spent two years working with government and related agencies lobbying on the impact of SMEs in driving UK economic growth. As board director of the GBIOT, Tech WM I have first hand understanding of helping develop strategies and approaches to respond to gaps in ecosystems.
As Chief Innovation Officer of Woodbourne Group I have a strong appreciation of investment and planning in Birmingham, contributing actively to key cornerstones of development including the Birmingham Knowledge Quarter.
I believe as a council member I can bring first hand knowledge of small businesses and the challenges they face whilst appreciating the bigger strategic challenges related to driving growth in places and policy. I can provide insight and access to key players and challenges in respect of skills and innovation - two key ingredients for growth. With first hand knowledge of collaboration at scale and working amongst committees to facilitate progress I can bring a wide array of insight and connections to add value to policy and progress, supporting the chamber in elevating the needs of business and facilitating progress.
As a chamber member I have a vested interest in the Chambers success.
JOHNATHAN DUDLEY
I lead Crowe UK’s Manufacturing Business Group, where I focus on driving growth and innovation within the sector. In my parallel role as the National Head of Corporate SME Business, I am dedicated to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in all corporate sectors, helping them navigate complex challenges and achieve sustainable success.
As a Chartered Accountant, I represent the West Midlands on the council of ICAEW, our institute’s ‘governance arm’ and an ex chair, and continuing member of, its Manufacturing Community.
My leadership experience is extensive and multifaceted. I have had the privilege of serving on the Crowe UK Executive team and its Supervisory Board, where I contributed to the strategic oversight and governance of our fast growing firm. I have lead teams in the establishment and development of two office locations and am the immediate past Office managing Partner for our Midlands and Southwest Region.
In addition to my leadership roles, I offer strategic advice and personal coaching as an Accredited Mindshop Facilitator (AMSF). This allows me to provide tailored guidance and support to business leaders, helping them to develop their skills and achieve their goals.
With over 40 years’ experience and a commitment to excellence, I strive to foster a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and drives business performance. My goal is to leverage my expertise to deliver exceptional value to our clients and the community as a whole.
Jun Du
As the Director of the Centre for Business Prosperity at Aston University, I have dedicated my career to advancing our understanding of international trade, productivity and economic policy, with a particular focus on Brexit and its implications for global trade dynamics, including the recent work on Midlands Engine trade challenges. My research has not only contributed to academic scholarship but has also shaped public policy and business strategies, which is regularly featured in leading media outlets.
I have had the privilege of serving on advisory panels such as the British Chamber of Commerce’s Global Britain Challenge Group and the West Midlands Growth Company’s internationalisation strategy steering group. These roles have deepened my commitment to supporting regional economic resilience and fostering strategic collaborations.
I am eager to bring my expertise and leadership to the Birmingham Chamber Council to further contribute to the growth and prosperity of our region. I believe that my experience and passion for economic development align with the Chamber's mission, and I am committed to helping our business community navigate the challenges and opportunities of an increasingly interconnected world.
Salman Dossa
Why I would like consider myself to be nominated as council member, it’s quite simple. I have been in the field of IT for past 25+ years since I have started entrepreneurial ventures in the field of Website development & Marketing, Travel Agency and now Overseas Business Forum. I’m very active within the community as a volunteer and run my own group for Men call MenTell Health®️. It’s an opportunity to connect and share my experiences.
SARA BLAIR-MANNING
Sara is a visionary and creative leader of heritage and cultural visitor attractions and large-scale capital projects. With over 30 years of ethical leadership, she delivers success by working collaboratively a range of stakeholders. Passionate about diversity, inclusion and education she has been successful in establishing and managing effective, multi-disciplinary and diverse teams of staff and volunteers.
She believes that a high quality, creative and accessible visitor offer leads to a strong sense of community ownership and long-term support of local assets, leading to successful place making.
Scott Dalziel
As a proud Midlander, Birmingham holds deep personal significance for me. My passion for contributing to the City's dynamic and diverse community motivates my candidacy for election to the Chamber Council. With over 23 years of professional experience, I am dedicated to shaping policies that benefit our region and its people.
Through my involvement with Davies and our membership to the Insurance Cultural Awareness Network (ICAN), I actively champion cultural diversity, challenge stereotypes, and serve as a thought leader on inclusivity in Birmingham. Additionally, my commitment to supporting local businesses was demonstrated when my company ensured ongoing learner support during the closure of the Birmingham Learning Provider. I am eager to continue advocating for Birmingham’s growth and to further contribute to the city's vibrant, inclusive future by applying my expertise to the Chamber Council. I believe together we can create lasting, positive change for all.
SUZIE BRANCH-HADDOW
Suzie Branch-Haddow is Vice Principal, External Development at Birmingham Metropolitan College with responsibility for all externally facing activity including: Business Development and Sales, Apprenticeship Recruitment, Work Experience, Income Diversification, Stakeholder Relations, Marketing and Schools engagement.
She is also Chair of Skills West Midlands and Warwickshire, a collaboration of Further Education Training Providers and Colleges across the region working together to forge links between the regional business community and FE sector.
Suzie formed her first business when she was 24 providing marketing and PR consultancy support to the BPS and Education Sector before going into the Further Education sector in 2013. A career move that enabled Suzie to combine values and focus on supporting young adults into rewarding careers through improving the connectivity of business and education.
Suzie is proud to have received the Future Faces President Award in recognition of her support to young professionals through networks and in particular the role she played in merging Birmingham Future and Future Faces and of course.. Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year.
She is also a volunteer Enterprise Advisor at Rigby Hall Special School in Bromsgrove where her young son is a pupil and is passionate about improving opportunities for young people with disabilities and for supporting parents and carers develop careers.
Victoria Pargetter-Garner
With a career spanning the HE, public, private, and charity sectors in the region, I have an expansive network and understanding of ‘business’ in the city.
I am hugely passionate about improving economic outputs for Birmingham, improving the lives of its residents, and creating a positive reputation for the city. I believe that the Council could be a catalyst for that ambition.
I can add value to the Council through intel from my networks (organisations of all shapes and sizes and across a variety of sectors in the City), as well as offering my energy and dedication to making Birmingham a great place to do business and live.
Whilst applying under my employer, TechWM (formerly Birmingham Tech), I will also be able to represent the interests of two other members – SF Recruitment, who are a close partner in my role, and Focus Birmingham, who I am a trustee for.
YETUNDE DANIA
Yetunde is a partner at international law firm Trowers & Hamlins and since 2020 has been head of their Birmingham office, which has grown to a head count of over 150 people since opening 13 years ago.
On a day-to-day basis, Yetunde is a property litigation lawyer, using her 25 plus years of experience in the profession to advise the social housing sector and private sector landlords and their agents in relation to non-contentious issues and disputes. Besides this Yetunde is passionate about advancing the equity, diversity & inclusion agenda, particularly for care leavers and the Black community.
Until 2022 Yetunde was on the advisory board of the government-backed Care Leaver Covenant which launched on 26 October 2018 and in December 2021 became the first independent chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority's Race Equalities Taskforce. Yetunde stepped down from the Taskforce in June 2023 having secured the Combined Authority's approval of a five-year strategy entitled "Race Forward", which was devised by the 30-member strong taskforce.
Since stepping down Yetunde has continued to pursue her passion by, amongst other things, being instrumental in the creation of the Black Business Collective, a network launched by Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce in June 2024 which is aimed at Black business owners and entrepreneurs. Trowers & Hamlins is a founding sponsor of the network.
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