New members join Cannock Chamber committee
New members were appointed and co-opted to the Cannock executive committee at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) today.
The AGM, held at the Aquarius Ballroom at Hednesford and sponsored by Staffordshire University, was hosted by head of Cannock Chamber of Commerce Richard Brooks.
Ben Bradley, director of Cosmik Carrot, was appointed to the executive committee during the AGM. Cosmik Carrot was also nominated for the Cannock Chase business of the year award.
Two new members, Bianca Mari from Better Care Services and Karl Frankham from TechCare, were also co-opted to the Cannock Chamber of Commerce.
David Mitchell, marketing and communication consultant from The Marketing People Digital will continue as president while Chris Wheeler, cost management consultant of Auditel and Gill Durkin from Performance Through People continue as vice presidents.
Other members include;
- Chris Ansell – GeoGrow
- David Jackson – McArthurGlen
- Joanna Dugan – Newlife
- Kathryn Lamb – Chasetown Football Club
- Steve Rogers – Dains
The committee will also support Newlife, the UK’s largest charitable provider of specialist equipment for disabled children as their chosen charity for the upcoming year.
Meanwhile Chris Wheeler, who couldn’t attend the Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield & Tamworth and Cannock annual awards night, was handed the Cannock president’s award at the AGM by president David Mitchell.
Speaking at the AGM, David said: “This year has seen significant progress for the Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce.
“Our events have undergone a positive transformation, becoming hubs of activity that attract participants from various divisions. The Chamber's standing in the business landscape is evident; we've increased the volume of our voice, drawing attention and interest in the Cannock Chase area.
“The Cannock Chase Chamber looks to balance formality and approachability, ensuring that our impact is seen in the business arena and resonates with our members and the broader community we serve. Education, training and apprenticeships are an important aspect of the future workforce and the sustainability of our impressive local commerce and industry.
“Diversity, equality, and inclusion are integral aspects of our ethos. Education, skills development, and employment retention are focal points.
“Additionally, in both my professional role through The Marketing People and as president, we are working hard to assist our members with sustainability initiatives and align with business continuity and our appreciation for our region's outstanding natural beauty.
“We are actively encouraging regional businesses of all types, manufacturing, hospitality, and construction, along with professional services, to join the Cannock Chamber to share connections and business locally.”
Head of Cannock Chamber of Commerce Richard Brooks said: “The AGM marks another turning point for the Cannock Chase Chamber.
“Our chamber is just coming back into growth, and having seen some excellent campaign-based events, our chamber initiatives are now taking shape through the great ideas, work, and valuable contacts from our executive committee.
“We are formulating real solutions for net zero and sustainability commitments, developing a diverse culture, and looking to build a bridge over education, skills and retention for our regional businesses and educational establishments.
“Keep an eye out for events and opportunities coming up throughout the year where we look to make a real impact.”
Speeches were also given by Staffordshire University project manager Rachel Wood, Ashfaq Ashraf from Birmingham City Council and Sally Thompson from Staffordshire County Council.
The Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce has 77 members with over 300 delegates attending events in the last 12 months. The Chamber has also supported over 400 businesses.
Pictured from left to right: Kathryn Lamb, Ben Bradley, Steve Rogers, Bianca Mari, Chris Wheeler, David Mitchell, Gill Durkin, Chris Ansell, Karl Frankham, and Richard Brooks.
