MEDIA STATEMENT
April 12th, 2013

Waikato Powerhouse To Lead Hawke’s Bay Chamber Of Commerce

Well known Waikato business leader Wayne Walford is the new CEO of the Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce.

Born and raised in Hawke’s Bay, Mr Walford has a background in information technology, health, hospitality, the arts and local government and has spent four years as CEO of the Waikato Chamber of Commerce.

Lured back to Hawke’s Bay specifically for the Chamber role, Mr Walford said the region offered many exciting opportunities for businesses to grow.

“I am looking forward to using my connections and experience to add breadth and depth to the commercial sector in Hawke’s Bay and ultimately, increase the value proposition for Chamber members.”

Mr Walford said Hawke’s Bay companies had the chance to capitalise on the China Free Trade Agreement and he planned to share his connections in this area with potential exporters.

A self-described “people person” with a passion for fashion, Mr Walford says he enjoys the challenges of leadership and assisting others to realise their potential.

“I really believe in enriching and empowering people to reach their potential and achieve success in business.”

Mr Walford is credited with lifting the profile of the annual Westpac Waikato Business Excellence Awards, and said he is excited about leading the Hawke’s Bay event in November and encouraging businesses to enter.

Chamber president Katja Williams said securing Mr Walford as Chamber CEO was a huge plus for the region.

“Wayne is well placed to lead a fresh strategic direction for businesses in Hawke’s Bay and we look forward to exciting times ahead.”

A meeting of both Chamber and Business Hawke’s Bay boards will be held on Tuesday next week, to consider leadership of Business Hawke’s Bay.

Ms Williams confirmed that separate leadership would be put in place for Business Hawke’s Bay in the near future.

“We believe that dedicated leadership for each organisation will create a stronger path towards tangible growth for Chamber members, and for the region as a whole,” she said.

Photos: Credit Tim Whittaker

ENDS

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