Increased collaboration will help drive the economic success of the county, according to the new CEO of a leading Hertfordshire business organisation.
Donna Schultz, who has been promoted from managing director of the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, wants to see companies working together to support each other — and to fuel growth.
She said: “Looking forward, my intention is to encourage increased collaboration between our county’s businesses. This is of particular value to smaller business owners or sole traders, for whom making new connections and building up networks can make such a difference.
“This is especially true when business people across different industries become connected, as they can share insights from each other’s viewpoints to stay up to date with wider economic trends, measure how they are performing, and potentially identify gaps in the market or opportunities for deeper collaboration.”
The Hatfield-based Herts Chamber of Commerce is this year celebrating its centenary. The organisation supports its members to ‘Connect, Collaborate and Grow’, opening doors and forging new business relationships.
As one of 53 British Chambers of Commerce-accredited Chambers, Herts Chamber members can benefit from this association nationally, as well almost 80 British Chambers of Commerce and business groups located in every continent of the world.
Donna Schultz said: “Building relationships is key to what we do. We all need support and guidance from time to time and our members have shown how important those connections are.
“It is a fundamental role of the Chamber to facilitate those relationships through events and networking opportunities, so everyone benefits.
"Our recent Inspiring Herts Awards showed the range of organisations within our county, all contributing to the bigger picture. Everyone has a part to play in the county’s growth and development.”
Donna started with the Chamber in 2019 as a business engagement manager and held a number of senior roles before being appointed managing director in January.
Chairman Jeremy Bishop said: “I am delighted to see Donna taking the lead with the Chamber. She has been an incredible asset over the years and nobody knows the organisation better.
"She has delivered excellent work in her different roles and was best placed for becoming CEO.”
The Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce is based at York House in Salisbury Square, Old Hatfield.
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