CHIEF EXEC TO STEP DOWN FROM MORAY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

New, expanded Chamber team to be based in Elgin

After more than two years at the helm of Moray Chamber of Commerce, chief executive Lesley Ann Parker is to step down from the role in order to pursue her own business interests.

Lesley is expected to leave her post at the end of May to focus on growing her own art and marketing business, Leap Scotland Ltd, based in Craigellachie.

Her departure will result in organisational changes at Moray Chamber, and the opening of a new Chamber of Commerce office in Elgin.

Lesley Ann Parker joined Moray Chamber of Commerce as Marketing & Events Manager in February 2008 and was appointed Chief Executive in December 2009.

She led Moray Chamber during a turbulent period for the Moray economy. As a leading member of Moray Task Force, she played a key role in the high profile year long campaign to save RAF Lossiemouth and has been an effective voice for local business, lobbying Ministers at Holyrood and Westminster in support of the business community. She has also spearheaded the campaign to secure Space industry jobs for Moray, backing calls for a spaceport in the region.

Lesley said: “It has been an absolute pleasure to lead Moray Chamber of Commerce for the past two years. They have not been the easiest years for the Moray economy, given the uncertainty surrounding the future of the RAF. I am proud to have played a part in the campaign to save RAF Lossiemouth. It showed the real spirit of Moray and it is an achievement that will benefit generations to come.

“After several years juggling a high profile job, my own business and my family commitments, I now want to focus more of my efforts on growing my business and supporting my family.

“I have worked with some amazing and inspirational business people and it has been a real privilege to represent Moray businesses. I wish George McNeil and the new team every success and will, of course, continue to support Moray Chamber in any way I can.”

George McNeil, president of Moray Chamber of Commerce, said: “We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to Lesley Ann Parker for the superb job she has done as chief executive. She has given a voice to businesses across the region and campaigned at the highest level in support of the Moray economy. The role she played in the campaign to save RAF Lossiemouth speaks volumes for Lesley’s passion and commitment to Moray.

“I am sorry to see her leave the Chamber, but I understand her desire to grow her own business and spend more time with her family. She leaves the Chamber in a very strong position, as one of the smallest but perhaps most effective Chambers in Scotland.”

Following Lesley’s departure, Margery McLennan, currently a Chamber Board Member, will take up the post of Executive Director, taking a more active role in the operations of the Chamber.

A new operations manager and administrative assistant – reporting to the Executive Director – will also be appointed, both based in a new Elgin office.

George McNeil added: “Margery is a respected and experienced member of the Moray business community and will be an effective ambassador for businesses across the region. She will be supported by a new and expanded team and our new Elgin office will further enhance our links with the Moray business community.”

“We believe these changes will ensure Moray Chamber of Commerce continues to be the region’s most effective voice for business.”

-ENDS-

More information:

George McNeil, Moray Chamber of Commerce

07879 848828