The Chamber

Looking to 2007

by Maureen Young - Director Perthshire Chamber of Commerce

As the excitement of the 2006 Business Star Awards finally dies down, Perthshire Chamber of Commerce now turns its attention to the challenges and opportunities in the year ahead.

A recent self-scrutiny exercise by the Chamber board saw directors meet for a strategic review and planning day. And now the blueprint is being tabled which will map out the future for the successful business forum.

Following hard on the heels of this brainstorming session, the board is now addressing a variety of issues ranging from communication and membership to structure and resources before laying foundations for the best delivery of services to members.

“It has been some considerable time since the board took a strategic review of the work of the Chamber,” said President Alastair Dorward. I’m confident that together we have identified our needs for the future and now we have to determine how best to deliver them to our members within current and future resources.”

The board has agreed strategic direction across the series of different issues and committees are now looking to translate these into operational plans.
“We could see quite a few changes in 2007,” added Mr Dorward, “but we believe they will be changes for the better. It’s important that we deliver the best possible results for members and that means not only ensuring a sound administrative platform but also creating a committed and effective mouthpiece for the business community which can fight their corner no matter how big or small the players.

“We also have to embrace the electronic and digital age to reduce overheads and increase our public profile in order to enhance our status and attract new members. There are real challenges ahead but the board of directors is looking forward to delivering for our members.”

The Chamber’s popular monthly lunches will continue next year with a networking event opening the 2007 calendar at the Lovat Hotel on January 23. These very enjoyable get-togethers allow businessmen and women from across the area the chance to “advertise” their own operations and learn what else is on offer from their fellow members.