About the Burton and District Chamber of Commerce
The Burton and District Chamber of Commerce supports businesses across East Staffordshire and the surrounding area, including the key centres of Burton upon Trent and Uttoxeter. As a division of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), it forms part of a wider network of more than 2,500 businesses, collectively representing over 180,000 employees across the region.
The Chamber works closely with local stakeholders, councils, and partner organisations to champion the interests of businesses at every stage of their journey. Through regular engagement, it helps to identify opportunities, promote key events, and drive awareness of local and regional developments that can benefit the business community, members or no.
East Staffordshire continues to attract a growing number of start-ups and inward investment, reflecting the area’s strong appeal and future potential. It’s an exciting time to be part of the Chamber, with increasing momentum around collaboration, innovation, and growth.
Contact us here or our divisional lead, Richard Brooks to find out how this can benefit you and your business.
Richard Brooks
Head of Burton & District
Tel: 07796242029
Burton & District Charity of the Year
SARAC (Sexual Abuse Rape Advice Centre) has been providing vital, confidential support to individuals affected by sexual violence across Burton, Lichfield, Tamworth, Uttoxeter, Swadlincote and South Derbyshire since 1994. Founded by a group of local women in response to the lack of support for victims, SARAC began as a grassroots helpline and has grown into a respected local charity supporting around 350 people at any given time.
The charity offers specialist support for any gender over the age of 11 who has experienced or is at risk of sexual violence, as well as for secondary survivors. Their services are delivered by a dedicated team of qualified trauma-informed professionals, supported by volunteers and trustees who share a deep commitment to breaking the stigma around sexual abuse and giving survivors a voice.
SARAC’s impact spans decades and has helped thousands of individuals begin the path to recovery. Their work remains as essential today as it was at their founding, and they continue to provide life-changing support to those who need it most within our communities.
Being named Charity of the Year by the Burton and District Chamber would be an incredible honour—and a powerful platform to raise awareness of the support SARAC provides, the reality of sexual violence in our towns, and the urgent need to keep breaking the silence. This recognition would not only help SARAC reach more people in need, but also drive vital conversations and help bring this often-hidden issue into the light where it can no longer be ignored.
- Website:
- burtonymca.org/
Burton & District patrons
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Meet the Burton & District Committee
RICHARD WILEMAN - BURTON & DISTRICT PRESIDENT
Richard is Principal at Select Car Leasing in Burton-upon-Trent and brings over four decades of expertise in the motor industry. As a long-standing Chamber supporter, currently serving as Patron and Vice President of the Burton & District Chamber, he offers strategic insight and a deep understanding of business needs. Richard is passionate about supporting local businesses and connecting people through the Chamber to help them succeed. Away from work, he is a keen golfer and Derby County supporter.
AMRIT VIRK
Amrit is Assistant Principal for Marketing, Business Development and International at Burton & South Derbyshire College. With previous experience leading curriculum delivery and quality assurance, he offers strong insight into skills development and workforce planning. Amrit is committed to building stronger links between education and business to meet the region’s evolving economic needs.
CLAIR REEVES
Claire is an award-winning coach and integrative counsellor with deep expertise in NLP, hypnotherapy, and Time Line Therapy. Drawing from her personal and professional journey, she helps individuals overcome challenges and unlock their potential. Claire brings a wellbeing and personal development lens to the Chamber, advocating for mental resilience as a driver of business performance.
LAKHVIR SINGH
Lakhvir is a Commercial Dispute Resolution Solicitor at Nelsons Solicitors, specialising in complex litigation matters including commercial property and landlord/tenant disputes. His legal expertise brings a strong analytical edge to the Chamber Council, helping to guide members through challenges. Lakhvir is committed to delivering practical solutions for businesses across sectors and contributing to a fair and thriving local economy. He’s also the Burton Ambassador for Future Faces!
PAULA SENIOR
Paula brings extensive experience in relationship-building across business, education, and the charity sector. Her work in fundraising, event management, and strategic partnerships makes her a valuable link between community and commerce. Passionate about making a difference, Paula brings an inclusive perspective and a drive to grow connections between sectors. Outside of work, she enjoys travelling, socialising, and a competitive game of Rummikub.
RICHARD FAULKNER
Richard is Director at Alexander Accountancy, where he works closely with individuals and businesses to maximise income, improve profitability, and reduce tax liabilities. With a proactive and pragmatic approach, he adds commercial acumen to the Chamber Council. Richard is also a keen sports fan who enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, and relaxing with a good TV box set.
ROB PAGE- VICE PRESIDENT
Rob has over 36 years of experience in commercial leadership roles, including nine years as MD of Swinkels Family Brewers where he led significant business growth. Now running his own consultancy, he offers insight into financial matters, wealth management, leadership development, sustainable growth, and team transformation. Rob values building trusted relationships and looks forward to supporting local businesses through the Chamber. He is a committed Derby County season ticket holder, enjoys golf, and running.
RUSSELL JEANS
Russell is CEO of Sefton & Associates, a senior recruitment and executive search firm. With over 30 years of corporate experience, he advises on growth strategy, board governance, and investment. A qualified accountant and MBA graduate, he also chairs the Birmingham Assay Office. Russell brings strategic insight and leadership experience to the Chamber, with a passion for supporting enterprise and innovation.
SCOTT MILLIGAN
Scott is an experienced marketer and agency founder who now leads Burton Radio and the Burton Echo. With a background across sectors including beauty, insurance, and legal services, he brings a creative and community-focused approach to the Council. Scott is passionate about telling the stories of local people and businesses, and strengthening community ties through media.
THOMAS DEERY
Thomas leads regeneration and development for East Staffordshire Borough Council, overseeing strategic projects that support growth, investment, and infrastructure. His experience in planning and local government brings vital knowledge to the Chamber Council, particularly around business support and place-making initiatives.
TIM MAHONEY
Tim is the founder of EEvolution and a seasoned business leader with a background in delivering transformative change across industries. His expertise spans technology integration, agile leadership, and operational improvement. Tim’s approach focuses on innovation and building high-performance teams. Through the Chamber, he aims to help businesses unlock their potential and adapt to new opportunities in a fast-changing environment.
ZISHAN AHMED
Zishan is Director of IT HelpDesk Burton and a skilled IT Consultant with a strong background in database systems, technical support, and network administration. With a BSc in Networking and Telecommunications, he brings practical technical expertise to the Council. Zishan supports businesses in adopting digital solutions and enhancing operational efficiency through technology.