AS THE newly appointed president of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce, I am hugely honoured to have been asked to represent the business community in the North-east of Scotland.
Having served on the Chamber board for seven years and as a council member previously, I have a good understanding of how the Chamber operates and was extremely proud to be associated with the organisation when it won the UK Chamber of the Year award in 2014.
I hope to contribute as much as I can over the next two years to the overall aim of the Chamber, which is to provide the ultimate business network, however I have two particular areas that I hope to focus on.
It is no surprise to anyone reading this that the North-east economy is experiencing a downturn as a result of the low oil price and the resulting impact on many businesses in the area, not only those in the energy sector.
I want to ensure that the Chamber and the services we offer are as relevant to local companies and members during these difficult times as they are when business is booming.
This may mean changing our approach or adapting some of the services we offer.
The Chamber will continue to consult with members and seek feedback to ensure we continue to offer relevant and quality services.
My other focus will be on investing in the next generation.
Many members report skills shortages and problems recruiting staff as significant challenges to business growth.
We need to do all we can to grow talent within our businesses and make Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire a great place to live and work.
I hope to be a role model for young women in particular, and would like to see more opportunities for people with a disability in the workplace.
As the CEO of a large third sector organisation, I am pleased to see social enterprises and charities getting the profile they deserve.
The third sector is a significant employer and contributor to the local economy and many outstanding organisations are featured in the Bulletin this month.
I look forward to working with you all over the next two years and please do contact me if there is anything I, or the Chamber, can do to support you and your business.