Prosperous year documented during Chamber AGM

The Solihull Chamber of Commerce celebrated a successful year of supporting the Solihull business community this week during a time of reflection at their Annual Meeting (AGM).

The event took place at Solihull Moors Football Club and saw members come together to appoint new members to their executive committee and outline their achievements within the last year.

The AGM outlined the multiple ways in which the Chamber has been flying the flag for local businesses, including the hosting of their in-person Annual Awards ceremony in October 2021 and the host of networking and charity events aimed at keeping businesses connected whilst navigating unchartered waters during the pandemic.

This year 's AGM was also the first time that head of Solihull Chamber, Samantha Frampton, had lead the event since her appointment last year.

She said: “As you know I became the new head of Solihull Chamber in September 2021, a role which I am privileged to take on.

“I love what I do and am really excited to be able to play a part in what is an exciting time ahead for Solihull.

“Since joining in 2018 I have had the pleasure of getting to know our wonderful members, partners and patrons.

“Solihull is already home to an ever-growing number of high-profile businesses and significant opportunities from major investments such as the Commonwealth Games and HS2 Interchange Station.

“And I promise within my role to continue to connect with, support and help grow local businesses.

Touchwood general manager, Tony Elvin, also addressed attendees ahead of what will be his second year as Chamber president and thanked members and the committee for their support during his term so far.

He said: “Samantha has been nothing short of amazing since being appointed as Head of Chamber and, along with my strong exec team and vice-presidents, have been the perfect support to me in my role. Thank you team.

“May I take this opportunity to thank everyone that has served the Chamber in this capacity over the past year, wish well those that are passing on the baton and offer a huge welcome to my new vice presidents and exec team members. Let 's do some good and have some fun! ”

As Tony Elvin continues his term as president, the AGM also outlined the changes made to the Chamber 's wider executive committee.

Vijay Jogia, business manager at Metro Bank and Susie Ankrett, director of Plum Personnel will take up their positions as vice president on the Solihull Chamber 's executive council for a two-year period alongside Eileen Schofield will continue in the role for another year. year at this AGM.

Vijay and Susie will take over from Michael Westman and Stuart Watson who have been re-elected to the executive council.

It was also announced that Kevin Johns, Emma-Louise Hewitt, Lindsey Stewart, Jas Rohel, Brad Parkes and Pauline Clarke will continue as executive council members for a second year, as well as Amanda Holden, Kim Hulse, Ian Rogers, Stephen Rome, Andy Cole MBE and Namrita Sharma.

During the AGM it was also announced that Social Life Opportunities (SoLO) will take over as Solihull Chamber 's Chosen Charity after it was said that the Chamber has successfully supported Arrive Alive in fundraising over £20,000 through a variety of activities over the last few years.

Pictured: (Left to Right) James MacDonald, Ellie Roscoe, Debbie Roscoe of Arrive Alive with Solihull Chamber president Tony Elvin and Chamber head Samantha Frampton.