The Wānaka Business Chamber welcomed three new directors and celebrated a year of “connection and consolidation” at its annual general meeting (AGM) on Wednesday night (May 28).

Three new business professionals - James Brewer, Holly Egerton, and Julia Langley - were elected to replace three incumbents who had stood down from the chamber’s board.

James has a background in IT and consulting and he is currently ANZ Wānaka's commercial bank manager; and Holly, a former lawyer, is the founder of Succession, an online business that helps Kiwis get their wills and enduring powers of attorney sorted.

Julia is a senior executive with over 20 years’ experience in sustainable finance, ESG strategy, financial services, and regulatory engagement.

Wānaka Business Chamber general manager Glenn Peat said it was “fantastic” to welcome the new directors.

“They bring a great mix of fresh energy and deep local insight, which will serve the Chamber and our wider business community well,” Glenn said. 

“I’m really looking forward to the contribution they’ll make as we take the next steps forward.”

Glenn reflected on the past year, where he said the chamber had “continued to build strong relationships across our business community, delivered a range of quality events, and reignited the Wānaka Business Excellence Awards, which was a real highlight”. 

“We’ve also made great progress on our leadership academy, which is developing into a key programme for local business capability building.”

Looking ahead, the focus is on establishing a permanent home for the chamber, Glenn said.

“It would be great to have a dedicated office and hub to host events, meetings, training, and co-working,” he said.

“Alongside this, we’re committed to continuing to deliver value for members through advocacy, training, and networking, particularly as businesses navigate a challenging economic climate.”

Wānaka Business Chamber has 330 members and its mission is to empower Wānaka’s business community with the support, resources, and connections needed for sustainable growth and success.

PHOTO: Supplied