Appointment a new challenge

Building on legacy

By MARIA LOW

The Cambridge Chamber of Commerce has a new advocate at the helm with the appointment of Cambridge mother-offour and businesswoman Raewyn Jones as executive officer. Mrs Jones takes over from Julie Epps who held the position for three years before leaving at the end of 2010 for new opportunities. Chamber president LesleyAnn Thomas said Mrs Jones’ strong background in business management and education, and commitment to business would be great for the chamber. ‘‘Raewyn’s appointment will only enhance the programme already offered to members. ‘‘Her strengths will enable the chamber to offer more business training opportunities in addition to the networking and profiling created by her predecessors.’’

Ms Epps said Mrs Jones was joining the chamber at a time when it was strong and vibrant. ‘‘Cambridge will continue to maximise the infrastructure created for world rowing and leverage the lessons learned for the benefit of our business community,’’ she said. ‘‘We are heading into national elections and the rugby world cup, and Cambridge is hosting this year’s business awards. It will be an exciting first year for Raewyn,’’ Ms Epps said. Mrs Jones, her husband – chiropractor Gareth Jones – and their children returned to New Zealand from the United Kingdom in 2005. ‘‘I have had my eye out for a while for a new challenge that would enable me to build on my skills and experience, while achieving something worthwhile for my community,’’ she said. ‘‘I would like to continue the legacy of my predecessors so the chamber continues to be inclusive and to grow the chamber membership while maintaining an excellent level of service and support. ‘‘I am so excited about the opportunity to work with and for the Cambridge business community, helping to build relationships and promoting a positive environment.’’ Mrs Jones said Cambridge businesses had worked extremely hard over the past couple of years through some very tough economic times. ‘‘We can be very proud of our dynamic business community. For small and medium sized businesses word of mouth is everything and I aim to help develop the networks and relationships that will promote their interests, in Cambridge and other regions. ‘‘I am most looking forward to getting to know Cambridge business owners and developing good, open communication with them.

My main aim for the first few months in particular is to get out and meet as many people as possible. My door is always open.’’ Mrs Jones said