An ambitious vision for the future has been launched at Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (DCCI) annual meeting.
Chief executive Ian Girling outlined the expanding business support organisation’s dynamic five-year plan for 2015 – 2020 under its new motto, Leading Business in Dorset.
He also unveiled a bold new look for the Chamber’s brand, logo and colours at the meeting attended by 57 members at the Menzies Carlton Hotel in Bournemouth.
New office bearers and elected council members were also appointed for 2015 with AFC Bournemouth commercial director Rob Mitchell succeeding Paul Collins as president.
David McNair, who is director of the Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital, became senior vice president and Newsquest Dorset managing director Vincent Boni became junior vice president.
Ian, who has just celebrated his first anniversary as chief executive, said: “Our vision is simple – Leading Business In Dorset.
“We are an ambitious Chamber with a clear focus on where we want to go and what we want to achieve.
“We will strive to work closely with our members, partners in the private and public sector, educational institutions, town Chambers and other business organisations in delivering first class business support and creating an environment where businesses can flourish and grow.”
The new strategy for success comes after 12 months of modernisation and expansion at DCCI.
It focuses on DCCI’s long terms aims and aspirations to spearhead the drive for economic growth in Dorset.
The five-year plan sets out clear targets under four headings.
They are Supporting Our Members, Helping Make Dorset a Great Place to do Business, Facilitating a Powerful Voice for Business and Developing Accessible Support for Business.
Key measures include driving the success of members and the local economy through the delivery of high quality events, conferences, services, advice and support.
Others are developing core business skills and knowledge as well as information about legislation, key issues, opportunities, access to funding and new technology.
DCCI – the voice of business in Dorset – will encourage inward investment, develop international trade, support growth of key sectors and forge a powerful pan-Dorset chamber network.
The Chamber will allow easy access such services, including supporting the development and delivery of the Dorset Growth Hub and enhanced services for start-up and established businesses.
Rob paid tribute to outgoing president Paul for an outstanding tenure as he accepted the office for 2015 and said he was looking forward to working with David and Vincent, as well as Ian, the Chamber team and the DCCI board.
“I am both delighted and honoured to become president of DCCI for 2015.
“With the launch of the new five year strategic plan, it is an exciting time to be taking on the role.”
Rob added: “With the revised membership and events programme, increased media and PR activity, as well as affiliations with the town chambers, I can only see DCCI going from strength-to-strength.”
Newly elected members of the DCCI Council were also announced at the AGM. They are Ben Arnold from Savills, Mike Clark from Morris Lane, Mandy Fitzmaurice from Purple HR, Paul Tansey from Intergage, David Walsh from Dorset County Council and Simon West from Cowling and West.
