Simon Brierley appointed chief executive at East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce

Simon Brierley has been appointed chief executive at East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber has today announced on its website that Simon, who has been membership director since 2019, succeeded Miranda Barker from 1 September.

Prior to joining the Chamber, Simon spent 14 years as managing director of Lancashire Broadcasting Company, known locally as 2BR. 

On the Chamber website, Simon said: "Having worked alongside our members, partners, board and colleagues over recent years, I have seen first-hand the important role the Chamber plays in supporting businesses and helping shape the future of our region.

"East Lancashire is a place I care deeply about and one that presents significant opportunities. Businesses are operating in an increasingly complex and fast-changing environment, and the Chamber’s role as a trusted source of support, influence and connectivity has never been more important.

"My ambition is to build on the Chamber’s strong foundations, ensuring we continue to provide value to our members while strengthening our partnerships and influence across the region.

"I firmly believe culture drives performance. By investing in our people, living our values and creating an environment where colleagues can thrive, we can deliver excellent outcomes for our members, our partners and the wider regional economy.”

Chamber chair Catherine Ogden said: "Following a comprehensive and competitive recruitment process, the board is delighted to appoint Simon as our next chief executive.

"We considered a strong field of candidates and in our view Simon was the outstanding choice to lead the Chamber forward.

"Simon brings a combination of strategic thinking, commercial insight, a deep understanding of the Chamber and strong relationships across the East Lancashire business community.

"Throughout his career he has demonstrated the ability to lead through change, bring people together and deliver sustainable growth. The board was particularly impressed by Simon’s commitment to organisational culture and his belief that people are at the heart of long-term success.

"The Chamber is entering an exciting new chapter. We are committed to building upon our existing strengths while continuing to evolve to meet the changing needs of businesses across East Lancashire, and we are confident Simon has the leadership and ambition to help us achieve that.”