3 minute read
CEO Update
Chamber Chief’s UPDATE
From networking events to meetings with government ministers and In-Camera dinners with leaders in business, the hectic round of activity spearheaded by NI Chamber for the benefit of members never stops. NI Chamber Chief Executive Ann McGregor gives a taste of what’s coming up and what’s taken place recently with a picture gallery over the following pages.
It’s my great pleasure to warmly welcome NI
Chamber’s new President, Ian Henry. As many readers will know, Ian is a Director with the Henry Group, an indigenous family business based in Magherafelt. As a leading member of the construction sector, Ian is a well-known figure who has played an active role on our Board for a number of years. We wish him a very successful Presidency.
The role of President at NI Chamber is much more than a ceremonial title. It involves championing business with government and requires significant commitment – and noone has exemplified this more than outgoing President, Allstate NI’s John Healy. John has been an outstanding ambassador for business in the role, representing Northern Ireland companies during an exceptionally challenging period. On behalf of all our members, I thank him for his outstanding contribution.
We are also pleased to welcome a new board member – Vicky Davies, Deputy Chief Executive at Danske Bank.
With the Executive now back up and running, NI Chamber has been closely involved in a busy round of initial meetings and briefings with new Ministers and MLAs. While significant uncertainties exist for businesses, especially in terms of trade, we have had positive engagements with the new Finance Minister, Conor Murphy and Economy Minister, Diane Dodds, as well as chairs from the Finance, Economy and Infrastructure committees.
As well as these direct meetings, NI Chamber is committed to providing opportunities for members to interact directly with Ministers. On 19 March, the First and deputy First Ministers will brief members on the Executive’s plans for supporting trade and investment.
Our first ‘In Camera’ event of 2020 saw businesses leaders put their views directly to Infrastructure Minister, Nichola Mallon. Roads, sewerage, broadband, public transport and the North South Interconnector were all up for discussion at the event. The In Camera series continues with Minister Edwin Poots from Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs on 25 March, followed by Finance Minister Conor Murphy in April and Health Minister Robin Swann in May.
In response to huge demand, our International Division is continuing to provide a suite of technical training courses, specifically for exporters. Also, a new schedule of events for Learn Grow Excel has been published alongside our full events calendar, which is available via northernirelandchamber.com.
With such an extensive range of support services, events and profile raising opportunities, do make sure you are making the most of your NI Chamber membership this year. NI Chamber CEO Ann McGregor, President Ian Henry and Head of Policy Chris Morrow with Economy Minister Diane Dodds MLA.
