New Black Country Chamber of Commerce president, Julie Cunningham, has outlined her key aims for the organisation.

Speaking at a chamber Business Expo in Wolverhampton, Julie thanked those present for the warm welcome she’s been given to her new role, saying that her purpose in taking it on is to “champion local, civic businesses in the Black Country and lobby on their behalf on key policy areas”.

As well as continuing current campaigns relating to manufacturing, transport infrastructure and Brexit, Julie hopes to encourage more collaboration between businesses and schools and named two areas that are particularly important to her – the Young Chamber and ethical finance.

She said: “I wholeheartedly believe that we need to act now to support the next generation and ensure that the future workforce of the region is fully equipped to maintain our competitiveness on a global scale.”

As an experienced chartered management accountant, currently Wholesale Finance Director at AF Blakemore, Julie has a strong understanding of the importance of ethical lending to the regional economy. She will be looking at ways to support Credit Unions in the Black Country, and to encourage local employers to support low-cost loans.

Think Sandwell wishes Julie all the best in her new role. To find out how we can support your business grow and develop, visit our Business Services pages.