Message from the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce President, Richard M Lavender

Jo James OBE DSc (Hons). Or as my Granddaughter is heard to say “Grampie, Jo is your work wife who you take out more than Grandma!”

So, as you can gather Jo and myself have worked together for some time. I became a Director of the Ashford Chamber of Commerce, representing Eurotunnel, a good few years ago and Jo was then Office Manager and supporting Chris Capron who was our CEO. Together they moved forward to adding other Chamber names to Ashford until the birth of the “Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce”.

It was at this time that Chris became ill, and Jo went from the supporting role to the managing role and kept the Board well briefed and showed that she was more than capable of running things as Chris’s health sadly further deteriorated.

It was then regrettable that Chris had to retire, and a replacement CEO needed to be found.

A conversation took place between Jo and myself, which I remember to this day, after my saying why don’t you apply for the position.

I would certainly propose you and back you, I am sure many others had the same conversation, and as they say, the rest is history.

Over the years Jo has taken the Chamber to new levels, she has got out there and told the County, the South East and the Country what is happening and what is needed for business today.

All our members have placed their complete trust in her and she has delivered. Being CEO is not about sitting in your office, dictating letters, answering phone calls, or emails. Yes, it is that but more, it is about getting your feet under the table with those who make the decisions and create the changes.

You don’t need me to tell you that Jo has carried that out and consequently, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce has become a business membership to be listened to and worked with.

We now come to the point whereby Jo has decided to take a break, those are my words, as Jo actually said she was retiring, but like me, do you really believe that? I believe that Jo has come to a staggered crossroads and will enjoy turning onto the main road of retirement for a short while before turning off once more and taking up a role that she can make her own and put all that experience to good use advising others how to achieve the impossible dream.

On behalf of the Board, Staff, and Members, a big thank you Jo for the journey you have made with us, the changes you have brought, the level to which you have raised the KICC profile throughout Kent & Medway.

Finally, Jo, thank you for the close and respected working relationship you and I have enjoyed throughout this journey. Enjoy your family and I am sure we will see you across some business table in the not-toodistant future.

Richard M Lavender