Ignite Wanaka Chamber of Commerce has appointed its executive officer Naomi Lindsay to the new role of general manager as part of changes to the organisation’s structure.

The chamber’s board has approved an increase in resourcing and support to deliver on its events-led strategy and to expand its support for the Upper Clutha business community, and with that comes the newly-created GM role.

"There are lots of challenges ahead and now is the time to invest in our local chamber and work together to support our economy and look at opportunities for diversification,” Naomi said.

See also: New events-led strategy initiated by Ignite Wanaka

“I look forward to continuing the initiatives I've implemented in the past few years and adding more opportunities to grow and connect our business community, continuing to partner with others on the same journey.”

Naomi has been Ignite Wanaka’s executive officer since 2015.

In that time she has helped grow the membership from 120 to 370 members, helped the board launch and deliver the successful Ignite Wanaka Business Awards (now in its fourth year), resurrected and expanded the Wanaka Women in Business series and introduced other key events to the local business calendar.

To support Naomi in her new role, the board will take on portfolios as part of their volunteer board time, each working with key stakeholders on the strategic priorities and advocacy opportunities, as well as to provide a greater voice for members.

Board chair Andrew ‘Howie’ Howard said the chamber was excited to appoint Naomi to the role of general manager. 

“She is a well-known personality in our district and has proven herself as a strong advocate for our business community. Her knowledge and networking skills ideally place her to deliver on our ambitious programme.

“As a board we are investing in our capability to deliver a strong, connected, diversified local economy that celebrates success and maintains a sense of community – and this is an important step in that process. I am looking forward to working with Naomi in this role as we continue to serve our members.”

PHOTO: Supplied