Chamber seeks new president

Terry Anderson is hopeful someone will step forward to be the next president of the Port aux Basques and Area Chamber of Commerce.
He's leaving he position after two years to take on another challenge, a bittersweet move in some ways, he said.
"I am a firm believer that every organization needs new blood," said Mr. Anderson. He added the momentum the chamber has built over the last few years makes it an exciting time to be involved with the organization.
He said the chamber is probably in the strongest position it's ever been in, with the popularity of several annual events, such as the Taste of Newfoundland dinner and the business expo, increasing. He added the golf tournament is still a big event for the chamber and the group offers more Small Business Week activities each year.
Mr. Anderson said the plans he had when he took the lead role - the main one being to make the chamber more responsive to the needs of the business community - have largely been accomplished. His only disappointment is that there aren't more active members.
"The chamber should be run by small business owners," said Mr. Anderson, adding they know the demands of running a business best.
He said participation from business people outside of Port aux Basques would also make the organization stronger.
Mr. Anderson said while the chamber does its best to make decisions that will benefit the entire area, that's sometimes hard to do without the perspective of someone from the Codroy Valley or coastal communities.
The election of officers for the chamber will take place at its annual general meeting later this month. Mr. Anderson remains president until then and will stay on as past president for at least one year.
While it's called an election, Mr. Anderson pointed out there was competition for only one position last year. No one has yet stepped forward to take on the president's role, but he's is hopeful someone will.
He said it's a great experience, one that can have a positive impact on a business, without being a large investment of time.
"It's not a hard job because we have a strong executive that is knowledgeable and experienced," said Mr. Anderson. He added that just as former chamber president Gary O'Brien was a resource for him, he will be available to the new president.
Mr. Anderson encouraged anyone interested in being an executive member of the chamber or serving as president, to contact him.
nmusseau@gulfnews.ca