News / Business West
Executive director of Business West is stepping down
The executive director of Business West will be leaving the organisation at the end of 2022.
James Durie, who is chief executive of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce and Initiative, has been part of the leadership team for the past 21 years.
In the role, he speaks for, represents and leads the business and employer community in Bristol and the wider West of England region.
“After 21 years I have decided the time is right for me to step down from my role at Business West Chambers & Initiative,” Durie said.
The executive director of Business West will be leaving the organisation at the end of 2022 – photo: Business West
Durie added: “I have had the privilege to work with so many amazing people in my role in the development of Business West Chambers & Initiative and the important work it does and different roles it has been able to play.
“I now feel ready for a change of emphasis and will be embarking on new and exciting challenges, more details of which I will be sharing in the New Year and coming months.
“As ever and particularly in this current economic environment, Business West has lots to offer companies to ensure they survive and thrive, and I wish them every success as they continue on their mission to do this.”
…………………………………….
Read more: Business leaders call for more detail on government’s energy price guarantee
…………………………………….
Phil Smith, managing director of Business West, thanked James for his “great commitment” and “invaluable contribution”.
He said: “James will be much missed by his Business West colleagues, our members and the many partners we work with.
“He has brought knowledge, skills, and energy to his role, demonstrating great passion for Bristol and the West of England. Over the last two decades, he has enabled business to be well represented, playing an active role in shaping, and influencing positive change for the benefit of all our communities.
“In particular, he has provided unwavering support and leadership to the members and the board of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce and Initiative together with our various partnership organisations.
“I would like to take this opportunity to appreciate James’ great commitment and thank him for his invaluable contribution to Business West and the Bristol Chamber and Initiative. We wish him the very best with his new venture.”
Main photo: Engine Shed
Read next:
- ‘Bristol is on everyone’s shopping list – growing pains are inevitable’
- New president of Bristol Chamber of Commerce & Initiative
- Business West chosen to address skills shortage in West of England
Listen to the latest Bristol24/7 Behind the Headlines podcast:
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
