THE new President of Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry has pledged to promote opportunities for young people and to highlight wellbeing and mental health in the workplace.
Liz Willingham, managing director of Liz Lean PR, said she would also ensure the Chamber was approachable for young entrepreneurs who are “the future of the county’s business success”.
Ms Willingham was presented with her title by outgoing Chamber President Paul Tansey at Dorset Chamber’s annual general meeting at the Hallmark Hotel, Bournemouth. She will be supported in her year of office by senior Vice-President Stephen Mills and junior Vice-President Warren Munson.
She said: “I was thrilled when I was asked if I would be open to the role of President. It is a great honour to help steer and lead the Dorset Chamber, in partnership with a host of talented business men and women.
“I strongly believe that we have one of the most go-getting Chambers in the UK, as there is an energy and vision which works to progress our business community and county. Having run my business from Dorset for 20 years and having been on the Chamber’s board for the past two years, I feel confident that I can bring energy, enthusiasm and experience to the role.
“During my time as President, I would like to create some positive opportunities for the Dorset Chamber.”
In her inaugural speech, she said she would work to raise the profile of opportunities for young people across the country, and to highlight the importance of supporting wellbeing and mental health at work.
The Chamber, which celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2019, should be positioned as approachable for young entrepreneurs, she said.
Her own business, based at Sandbanks, has marked its 20th anniversary this year with new staff and a host of client and project wins.
As well as appointing an agency director and two consultants, it has secured contracts with Hall & Woodhouse, Bournemouth Development Company, Hoburne Group and Royal Caribbean International. It is also working with Westover Group, financial technology firm DJS (UK) Ltd, Dorset County Show, Encore Care homes, Poole BID and Knoll House Hotel, as well as Nuffield Health hospitals in Brighton and Chichester.