PUNCHING ABOVE ITS WEIGHT

Greenock Chamber of Commerce, the Inverclyde business network, has been given a glowing assessment by a new affiliation standard introduced by Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC), the country’s largest business organisation.

SCC has introduced the new standard to ensure local chambers are of sound governance and financial standing, and operating at a level that would be expected of a respected business organisation. As the standard is rolled out across the network, Greenock Chamber is one of the first to be assessed and approved by SCC. Reassessment will take place every three years.

Greenock Chamber, which has more than 140 member companies, was constituted by Royal Charter in 1813, making it one of the oldest chambers in the world. The assessment covered its governance, financial management, communications, services, events and strategic planning, ranging from business objectives and operational plans to the use of people resources and future development plans. As an organisation whose purpose is to represent its members, its business partnerships, membership recruitment and subscription policies, were also closely scrutinised.

Commenting on the findings of the affiliation standard, Greenock Chamber President Elaine Stewart said: “Having welcomed the introduction of these standards by SCC, we are obviously greatly encouraged by the outcome for Greenock Chamber. They help confirm that we are operating effectively on behalf of our members, as we work towards our 200th anniversary in 2013.

“The assessment highlights that Greenock Chamber punches above its weight, benefits from sound governance and makes good use of people resources, not just on the Board but throughout our membership. We are seen to be offering quality services and events that cover a range of local and national issues. Our membership retention, which is at a high level, is also viewed as a significant achievement, particularly in the current economic downturn.

“This positive feedback has been achieved thanks to the enthusiastic business people who collectively make this organisation thrive, and that includes our members. As well as a diligent and voluntary Board of Directors, backed by our executive administrator Hugh Bunten, we are fortunate to have the commitment of an active membership. They are engaged in our sub committees and event organisation, and provide representation on behalf of Chamber across a variety of industry sectors. For that, we are extremely grateful.”

Greenock Chamber represents and lobbies on behalf of the Inverclyde business community, providing networking platforms and, through membership of Scottish Chambers, business training and mentoring support. Through British Chambers of Commerce, it also offers quality legal, employment and healthcare services, all designed to reduce overheads, eliminate exposure to risk, avoid expensive litigation and enhance employee wellbeing.

To find out more about Greenock Chamber of Commerce membership and forthcoming events contact Hugh Bunten on 01475 715577, mobile: 07939 272787, or visit www.greenock-chamber.org.uk.