Tuesday December 3, 2024 [6:38 pm] | VICTORIA, BC [Updated 8:47 pm]
by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
The search has begun for a new CEO to take the helm of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
“Although no one will be able to replace Bruce Williams when he moves on from the role in June 2025,” it is stated in a Victoria Chamber December 2 news release.
“Williams is open to taking on new opportunities and will continue to work for the community he has served for more than two decades,” said the Victoria Chamber in their release.
Leading through the pandemic:
Williams joined The Chamber in June 2020, a few months after the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic.
The circumstances tested everyone, including Williams who found himself in charge of a 157-year-old institution facing an existential risk as traditional revenue streams evaporated.
“Fortunately, Williams was up to the challenge. His calm approach and fundraising creativity nurtured new business models and diversified The Chamber’s income sources. The organization flourished when it was needed most,” the Chamber says about their outgoing CEO.
“It has been a transformative time as we experienced the pandemic and recovery and have made significant progress in DEI, Indigenous relations and diverse revenue development,” Williams said about his work with the Chamber.
“We have also engaged younger business people into Chamber culture, which has brought fresh energy and perspective to our organization,” said Williams.
The board’s appreciation:
“The Chamber and Greater Victoria’s business community have been fortunate to have had Bruce’s leadership over the past five years,” says Victoria Chamber Board Chair Kris Wirk.
“Under Bruce’s stewardship, The Chamber has navigated through unprecedented challenges, most notably the COVID-19 pandemic. His leadership during this critical time was instrumental in shaping policies and helping our members adapt,” Wirk said, adding that future leaders now have a stage to build upon and continue expanding The Chamber’s impact.
“Bruce also worked tirelessly to ensure that our Chamber became more inclusive, expanding opportunities for new and diverse businesses to become members. His commitment to diversity and inclusion has enriched our network and created a stronger, more vibrant local economy.
“On behalf of the entire Board of Directors and our members, we extend our deepest gratitude to Bruce for his dedication and outstanding service.”
Incoming Board Chair Christina Clarke says: “Bruce will leave a lasting legacy at The Chamber”.
Wrapping up in June 2025:
Williams’s contract expires in June 2025, allowing him to focus on new projects and opportunities. He and his wife, Amanda, own Spark Strategic Group. The couple will continue to live in Greater Victoria.
A number of events will be planned in 2025 to allow Chambers members and the community to connect with Bruce Williams before he leaves his role.
Chamber office relocation:
The Chamber is currently relocating their office within downtown Victoria.
The office move will result in periods of disruption to the phone system, so email to chamber@victoriachamber.ca is the best method of communication until the new office opens in January.
===== RELATED:
- Greater Victoria Chamber relocating to new downtown office (November 26, 2024)
- NEWS SECTIONS: BUSINESS & ECONOMY | CRD & GREATER VICTORIA