Suffolk Chamber Elects New President and Vice President

At the Chamber’s AGM, held at Ickworth House, Bury St Edmunds, Dr Peter Funnell, Chief Executive of IDEA Ltd, was elected as Suffolk Chamber’s President and Mark Westall from Archant Suffolk was appointed as Vice President, Sarah Howard of Sarand and Graham Abbey from Factotum were appointed as Directors.

Speaking at the event, Dr Funnell outlined the significant challenges and opportunities the Chamber would face in 2010.  He touched upon the need to think about what a change of Government could bring, not only in terms of cuts in public expenditure, but also in the role of the State. He spoke about how the last decade has seen a substantial growth in the role, responsibility and power of the State, and touched on a future where this model will be replaced by a much greater focus on community where local groups take on a civic leadership role.

Dr Funnell commented:

“It may well be that whilst we will promote economic recovery in our county, we will also need to take a much wider responsibility for explaining the central role of business in growing and sustaining local communities; with Suffolk Chamber, therefore, having a key role to play in the civic leadership of Suffolk and its economy.”

The new President stressed the role of the Chamber in rising to the challenges that lie ahead, of highlighting the fundamental role that business plays in the community, and of a wider social role in working with the young, the unemployed and leading effective regeneration.

Commenting further, Dr Funnell said:

“Suffolk Chamber sits in an ideal position, we are democratic, central in the community, and have a sense of pride, passion and place.

“We must act to provide answers and real solutions to the challenges the county faces.   There is something very special and unique about what Chambers do, and the values we represent and I look forward to tackling these issues head on over next two years.”

Special thanks were passed on to Paul Donno and Mark Hollocks who stepped down from the Board.  Particular gratitude was passed to Cathy Arbon of Bacton Transport as outgoing President. In the 2 years of her Chamber presidency, the Chamber has developed markedly, leading to growth in membership, improved support services and representational activities.