Chamber chief to hand over reins
HALTON Chamber Of Commerce And Enterprise has announced its chief executive Paula Cain is to leave at the end of July following seven years at the helm.
Paula Cain joined Halton Chamber in 2010 from Knowsley Chamber Of Commerce where she held a similar position.
A spokeswoman for the business networking and support services group said she had proved herself to be a ‘highly effective, popular leader’.
Dr Peter Cook, Halton Chamber chairman, said many business people will be saddened by her departure.
She is to be succeeded in August by marketing and business specialist Rachael Owen, a business Growth Hub broker on behalf of Halton Borough Council and Halton Chamber Of Commerce.
The incoming chief executive has an MBA from Manchester Metropolitan University and a postgraduate marketing diploma from the Chartered Institute Of Marketing.
Her CV includes working as an advisor with Business Link, marketing manager with IDG Media, college lecturer and business growth manager with Grant Thornton.
Paying tribute to Mrs Cain, Dr Cook said: “During Paula’s seven years at Halton Chamber, she has worked unstintingly to develop its role and put it on a more secure financial footing.
“She has driven up its reputation within the Halton business community and with regional stakeholders, and has led the organisation through some very difficult challenges.
“The chamber has benefitted greatly from ● her skills, experience, hard work, leadership and drive.
“The membership has grown significantly, we have more services and support available to local businesses, and at the start of this month, the 2017 Halton Business Awards were held at a glittering event in Halton Stadium, attended by a record 310 people, all celebrating the success of local business – a tremendous testament to what she has achieved.
“We know Paula has still to confirm her future plans but whatever direction she takes, we all wish her every success and happiness for the future.”
Dr Cook added: “We are delighted to welcome Rachael Owen as Paula’s successor.
“Rachael has extensive experience in both the private and public sectors, working in marketing, account management and business growth.
“The chamber’s executive group interviewed Rachael and were extremely impressed with her skills, knowledge, experience, ability, desire and enthusiasm to build on Paula’s work and take the chamber forward. We are looking forward to working with her.”