Component supplier takes over as chair of Rugby branch of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber

THE managing director of car industry supplier Automotive Insulations has been appointed as the new chairman of the Rugby branch of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce.

Jim Griffin has succeeded Simon Leech, of Perry Appletons, who had held the office for seven years.

“I’m not sure he realised when he took on the job in 2006 that he would still be chair come 2013 but he is very passionate about Rugby, business and the role of the chamber,” said Griffin following his appointment.

“I am a very different personality to Simon, but I share those passions and want to ensure this branch gets even stronger and continues to be the voice of business in Rugby and the wider borough.”

He said he wanted to hear from fellow chamber members and other businesses in the area about how to improve the economy in Rugby.

“My door will always be open to businesses who want to let me know any difficulties they are facing. I run my own company and, therefore, know the issues we see but they are very different to those affecting other businesses,” he said.

Automotive Insulations, which manufactures and supplies products that make vehicles quieter, is based on the Somers Road Industrial Estate but is set to move to state-of-the-art new premises next year as part of major expansion plans.