New Chamber of Commerce pres pledges new relationship with people, firms

A veteran business executive, now at the helm of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry has declared that he intends to build a new relationship with the public while improving relations between businesses.

Elected president at the Chamber of Commerce’s 195th Annual General Meeting on Monday,  Anthony Branker announced plans to tackle a number of issues facing Barbadian business.

“I will continue our advocacy around the following present concerns of price increases; renewable energy approvals; front of package labelling; banking fees; the Customs Bill and the duty-free sector proposal to Government,” he declared.

He also announced plans to implement creative solutions to better engage the public and address their perception of business. He promised to roll out a new three-year strategic plan for the chamber, developed on the pillars of “building, connecting, collaborating and innovation”.

Also high on the new president’s agenda is customer service, as he declared: “I would like to give more support to BCCI members in the area of service excellence, which has become an area of concern both for our customers and ourselves as business leaders. Our employees must be encouraged to clearly see the nexus between their level of commitment to service, the survivability of the business and the ability to support their families. In this regard, training is key.”

He further stated, “As I project my vision beyond our covid restrictions, I see the Chamber driving “Business Excellence” through a program where companies will align with set criteria, to inspire and help their organization on the journey to excellence, culminating with the hosting of an annual event to award outstanding companies.

During his address, Branker also praised Government for stemming the tide of the pandemic and the chamber’s own role in responding to the health crisis.

“We look forward to continuing the work with Government and the Barbados Private Sector Association to support the sustainability and development of business across our island and helping to shape Government policy,” the business leader said.

President Branker challenged BCCI members to unite and support each other in times of stress and uncertainty.

While noting that it was understandable that people think of “breaking for themselves”, the chamber’s watchwords must be “united we stand”.

Branker has over 20 years of senior management and executive leadership experience in the private sector, particularly in the retail and distributive trade. He previously served as senior vice president of the Chamber of Commerce.

For the past two years, he has been Assistant Vice President of Massy Distribution Barbados Ltd, he is responsible for the Health & Beauty Division, the Shipping Division and pharmacy subsidiary Knights Ltd. (BT/PR)