Chamber of commerce CEO to stand down this spring

The CEO of Harrogate and District Chamber of Commerce is to stand down this spring after almost five years in the role.

Sandra Doherty, who took on the mantle in May 2016, took the decision after recently selling her Ripon Road guest house and is in the process of moving away from the Harrogate area.

Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce president, Martin Gerrard, said: “Sandra has proved to be a very able, popular and hardworking CEO. We will be very sorry to see her not only depart from the Chamber, but from Harrogate too.

“Being Chamber CEO is by no means an easy job, and the last 11 months have proved to be incredibly challenging.

“It needs an understanding of Harrogate’s business scene, great organisational skills, and the ability to comment on a wide range of issues facing the town and the wider district.

“Our members are drawn from across Harrogate’s business community, from sole traders to those heading multi-million-pound organisations.

“Above all, it needs someone who cares about the town and the businesses that make Harrogate such a popular place to live and work.”

Doherty said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time as Harrogate and District Chamber of Commerce’s CEO, and when I depart, I will miss all that this position brings.

“Having sold my business, and soon to retire to Northumberland, now is the time for the Chamber to begin the job of looking for a successor.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for someone with a bit of time and an enjoyment of working with people in many walks of life. Like me, they will be supported by a superb management committee.”

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