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New leadership at helm of South Surrey-White Rock chamber

Business body scheduled to merge with Surrey Board of Trade
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South Surrey and White Rock Chamber of Commerce is changing leadership as part of its transition into a merger with the Surrey Board of Trade. (Contributed photo)

The South Surrey and White Rock Chamber of Commerce is changing leadership as part of its transition into a planned merger with the Surrey Board of Trade.

In a statement issued by the chamber's board of directors on Monday (Dec. 16), members learned the new board chair is Ginny Hasselfield, succeeding Bill Brooks in the role, as the organization continues to  "adapt and grow towards the completion of our merger."

Following on the signing of a legal agreement between the two organizations, subject to approval from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, the bodies are to combine as the Surrey and White Rock Board of Trade.

The board has also appointed Indra Bhan – currently interim CEO and chief operating officer of SBOT – as acting executive director of the chamber.

"This move will enable Indra to effectively bring together the two organizations," the statement notes.

The board thanked Brooks for his "leadership and dedication in bringing us to this pivotal point."

The statement said Hasselfield brings "a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective that will help guide us as we move towards the merger."

 Louise Tremblay has been appointed as new treasurer of the board, while Anthony Manning remains as vice-chair and Heather Martin continues as secretary.

The statement also renews the board's commitment to maintaining a presence in the South Surrey-White Rock after the lease on the current office, at 22-1480 Foster St., expires on Dec. 31.

Following the usual holiday office closure starting Dec. 21, staff will transition to a temporary remote working model starting on Jan. 6.

The statement said this will allow the board to plan for a new location in the White Rock-South Surrey area.

"During this period, all services and support will remain fully operational, and our team will be accessible via phone, email, and virtual meetings," the statement noted.

 



Alex Browne

About the Author: Alex Browne

Alex Browne is a longtime reporter for the Peace Arch News, with particular expertise in arts and entertainment reporting and theatre and music reviews.
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