Foreword

Sandra Kirkham, Chair, Wirral Chamber of Commerce

It was the shared vision with Wirral Chamber of Commerce that resulted in my joining the organisation in the first place. The rationale behind my thinking at the time was very simplistic – that we both believed in collaborating with employers to build mutually beneficial relationships.

Wirral Chamber of Commerce is pivotal to all businesses, enabling them to receive, or be signposted to relevant services and support. Not only does it provide a vital lifeline for business start-ups but also is a great support organisation for larger businesses having more specialist needs for their business growth strategies.

We will listen to the needs of businesses - but the most important thing for me is to respond to them with a pace of execution. I hold no fear of challenge and, if I believe the business communities that we serve wouldn’t benefit from the cause, then I’ll always raise that challenge.

Introduction

Paula Basnett, CEO, Wirral Chamber of Commerce

With the re-launch of Wirral Chamber of Commerce our key objectives were creating an organisation focused on offering effective services and establishing energetic and collaborative business support. With the encouragement of our members and partners we have moved forward in achieving these goals.

Partnerships are essential, and as such we have formed links with Liverpool City Region LEP and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, together with collaborative project work with other partners, such as Liverpool John Moores University, the Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce, together with a strengthening relationship with Wirral Council.

We are a modern, proactive organisation looking to address and challenge issues affecting our business community, and we will be pivotal in supporting our membership in driving change and innovation.

Wirral Chamber of Commerce will be key in supporting you with the vision for Wirral.