New leader, era for business chamber

Covid challenges present fresh opportunities

Doctor of economics Chris Ettmayr was installed on Tuesday night as the new president of Border-Kei Chamber of Business (B-KCOB).

He takes over from John Cupido at a time when many businesses, particularly small ones, are going to the wall and membership numbers are under pressure.

“Covid-19 has really changed the game and while it might be inappropriate to talk of opportunity while so many people are struggling, that there are opportunities is the reality.”

For both business and government, he said, there is a need to develop new and innovative models and ways of doing business.

“B-KCOB is a strong organisation, founded in 1977, with sub-committees headed by experienced people. In these uncertain times we will continue to take a leading role in preparing opportunities for our members, and will share this with Buffalo City Metro.

“In fact while we are focused on our members, I think in today’s times if there are any businesses that could benefit from our experience, even if they are not yet members, they should approach us.”

Ettmayr is the renewable energy and ICT sector manager of East London Industrial Development Zone. During 15 years as a member of the chamber, two as vice-president, he has been part of the team that has a sound understanding of business’s relationships with government, BCM and other municipalities.

“To have an impact on the pandemic, which has to be everyone’s immediate goal, we need to create even stronger ties, but also get a good grasp of what members need right now. We have already sent out a survey that will achieve this.”

Ettmayr said his new presidency lasts two years and his priorities during the period will reflect those of the chamber. However, an immediate opportunity has already emerged.

“Before the pandemic, many businesses flirted with the idea of getting people to work from home. Suddenly in the 96 days of lockdown, through necessity, the goal has accelerated to action. I would imagine that many companies are considering making it permanent. It should be a great opportunity for public-private partnerships.”

The work-from-home syndrome would result in many buildings lying vacant, many in the inner city. Ongoing talk of East London becoming a big university town might become one of the best and most practical ways to revitalise the area.

Ettmayr said that it was unavoidable that as businesses were closing, the membership would shrink, and fees dry up.

“As with most chambers, we get most of our revenue from members. I have spoken to several chambers, local and international, and all are in the same boat. In fact some have been forced to close. As a priority we will be looking at other funding models, both for the chamber’s long-term viability and to take pressure off some of our members.”

Through the ELIDZ, Ettmayr has worked in the automotive industry, pharmaceutical sector, agro-processing, aquaculture, business process outsourcing, ICT and electronics, and renewable and alternative energy sources.

“I am fortunate to have had broad experience of many sectors, which I hope can lead to my better understanding of our members’ challenges.”

Covid-19 has really changed the game and while it might be inappropriate to talk of opportunity while so many people are struggling, that there are opportunities is the reality