A 'selfless' Hertfordshire business leader is ready for a new challenge after announcing her decision to step away from the organisation she has led for four years. 

During her tenure, Herts Chamber of Commerce CEO Briege Leahy has overseen a 70 per cent increase in turnover despite the challenges of COVID-19 and the impact of Brexit.  

After joining in March 2019, Briege guided the Old Hatfield-based Chamber through a strong period of growth as the milestone of 1,000 members was reached for the first time. 

But she believes she has done all she set out to do at the Chamber and is ready to move aside for new talent to drive the organisation forwards. 

Briege said: “I know now is the right time. It has been an incredible four years and I am grateful to everyone for their support. 

“I doubt I will be disappearing completely; I have a deep emotional tie to the Chamber and will always be available. I will be leaving behind a very professional and talented team who will continue to deliver great work under a new CEO.” 

 

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She remains invested in the future success of the organisation and will be on hand to assist with the transition that is likely to continue until the end of the year. 

Perry Jackson, vice chairman, said: “We will be sorry to see Briege leave, but she leaves behind an incredible legacy. 

“She is a selfless leader who always leads by example, and was exactly the right person to have at the helm during the challenges we have all faced in recent years.  

“She has delivered key initiatives for the Chamber, including launching the Entrepreneur Foundation and leading the Local Skills Improvement Plan.

"She was honoured last year with a special recognition award for all her hard work and now is another opportunity for us to celebrate everything she has done for the Chamber. 

“She will be missed. But we can look forward to turning the page on a new chapter for the Chamber as it celebrates its centenary next year.” 

Sarah Howard MBE, chairman of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Briege has had a tremendously positive impact on the business community in Herts.

"Her entrepreneurial spirit and drive to introduce new ways of working has been of enormous benefit to Herts Chamber, their members and the national network.” 

For more information on the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, which is based in Salisbury Square, visit www.hertschamber.com.

 

                                                                                                                                

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