25 Nov 2024

Selfridges store director appointed to Chamber board

Sam Watson Selfridges 23.jpg 1

The head of Birmingham’s iconic Selfridges department store has been appointed as a non-executive director of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

The appointment of Sam Watson (pictured), store director at Selfridges Birmingham, was confirmed at the GBCC’s annual general meeting, which took place at Birmingham City University’s STEAMhouse building on Friday.

Sam brings to the Chamber board vast experience from a career in the retail sector.

Sam, who also chairs the Central BID (Business Improvement District) in Birmingham, says she can’t wait to rub shoulders with other industry leaders.

“This will give me a much wider view because the Chamber covers so many more different industries to what I would normally be exposed to,” said Sam.

“Even chairing Central BID, it is predominantly retail and hospitality that sit within our area.

“I am really looking forward to talking to other experts across different industries and businesses, SMEs etc. From a networking opportunity I am looking forward to it, and understanding what the strategy will be for the next five years.”

Sam highlighted Selfridges’ links with the business group as a long-standing Chamber member.

She added: “We have had a great relationship with Gary Birch, who is our account manager and connects me with various people across the city – I have always really enjoyed the events and the networking opportunities.

“If something comes to mind like a commercial opportunity for the store Gary is one of the first people to reach out to. It is a really great way of getting introduced to people without it being almost like a cold call.”

Sam said the Chambers network was ideal for nurturing business relationships.

“Likewise, Gary has messaged me many times saying so and so would love to talk to you about working with Selfridges.”

Equally, Sam said she was looking forward to bringing her own knowledge and experience to the Chamber.

“I am hoping that I will be able to offer a real insight, obviously from a retail point of view but also from the viewpoint of somebody running a large business in the city centre.

“I really enjoy my connections with the Chamber – there is a real synergy between how I like to work and operate with Selfridges as well.”

Greg Lowson, chair of the GBCC board, said: “I am delighted to welcome Sam Watson, to the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce board.

“With Sam’s vast experience in retail, including many years as store director of the iconic Selfridges brand here in Birmingham, she is a tremendous asset to the board and will greatly add to the breadth of knowledge that we already have.

“We look forward to working with her as we continue to champion the business community across Greater Birmingham."

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