Chamber names first female chair

The Black Country Chamber of Commerce has appointed its first female chair as it looks to increase its impact across the region.

Claire Lawton, founder of Halesowen-based HR specialist Acorn Support, succeeds Phil Purssey, who is stepping down after four years leading the organisation’s board.

Claire plans to build on initiatives including the Bostin’ Black Country Business campaign, which promotes the region’s strengths across sectors including advanced manufacturing, aerospace, construction, creative industries, life sciences and professional services.

She said: “This is a very exciting time to be taking the position of chair, especially with Raj Kandola arriving as our new chief executive.

“Sarah Moorhouse and Phil have been a great team and has given the organisation outstanding foundations to grow and deliver more targeted lobbying and business support to the entrepreneurs and firms putting the Black Country on the map.

“My role will be to build on this strong platform and work to take it to the next level, leveraging my experience in HR and culture to build a strong and highly skilled Chamber team committed to giving our members the best possible support.

“There are lots of challenges with rising costs and new legislation, but there is also lots of reasons to be optimistic with emerging markets and a new breed of young professional developing through our specialist Foundry initiative.”

Sarah Moorhouse, chief executive of Black Country Chamber of Commerce, added:  “Phil has made an enormous contribution, and I want to personally thank him for the commitment and leadership he has shown throughout that time. 

“I have greatly valued having him alongside me, offering both challenges and encouragement as we have worked together to move the Chamber forward. 

“His passion for our members and the wider business community has always been clear, and he leaves with our enormous gratitude and very best wishes.

“However, we need to look to the future, and I’m delighted to be welcoming Claire as our first ever female chair, a momentous moment for the region.

“It is a milestone we are incredibly proud to celebrate, and her leadership, experience and commitment to the business community will be a tremendous asset. 

“She will no doubt help build on our strong foundations, champion our members and drive forward our ambitions for the Chamber and the wider region.”

The Chamber supports businesses across Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton, with Claire highlighting its role in helping start-ups and established companies unlock growth opportunities in the UK and overseas.

Its board includes representatives from businesses and organisations including George Green LLP, Walsall College, KMB Shipping, BCRS Loans, SIPS Education and Central Business Finance.

Phil, chief executive of Caerus Business Solutions, steps down having chaired the Chamber through four years of challenging economic conditions.

He added: “We have achieved a lot over the last four years and I’m immensely proud of how the team have adapted to overcome economic challenges and keep their focus on delivering for our growing member base.

“With Sarah heading to the US, it felt the right time to gain a fresh perspective as chair, and I wish both Claire and Raj Kandola the very best in moving the organisation forward.”

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