Chief Executive Officer

Surrey Chambers of Commerce; England; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent business support organization in the UK seeks an inspirational CEO to lead growth and community engagement. The ideal candidate will balance commercial success with strategic vision and civic leadership, driving significant change in the region's economic development.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to inspire and lead a high-performing organization.
• Strong entrepreneurial instincts with strategic and operational acumen.
• Deep commitment to regional economic development.

Responsibilities

• Lead the organization into its next stage of development.
• Balance the interests of members with commercial success.
• Advocate for the business community and its role in society.
• Manage internal and external transitions during change.

Skills

Strategic vision

Entrepreneurial instincts

Civic leadership

Ability to inspire and lead

Commitment to economic development

Job description

CEO opportunity at Surrey Chambers of Commerce. A rare and fascinating leadership role for an inspirational, entrepreneurial leader.

Location: Woking, Surrey / Hybrid Working

Salary on application.

Reporting to: Surrey Chambers Board of Directors.

About the opportunity

Surrey Chambers is the leading independent business support and representation organisation in Surrey. It aims to make our county the best part of the UK to start, run, and grow a business while being a great place to work, live, and learn.

Louise Punter, our CEO of 25 years, will be stepping aside to head up our long-term projects department, and we are now starting the search for a new CEO to lead Surrey Chambers into its next phase.

This is a wonderful opportunity for a talented, committed individual to take the enviable platform that Louise has helped create and stamp their own vision on where it goes next.

About the role

This is a rare opportunity to lead a unique organisation poised to make the move to the next level. Supported by an experienced and cohesive Board and Executive Team, the new CEO will be an inspirational and entrepreneurial leader.

Beyond the usual CEO accountabilities, this role demands a deep commitment to place-centred, sustainable economic prosperity and the ability to champion private sector business growth while fostering business engagement in the public realm.

Key responsibilities

• Inspire a Strategic Vision: Lead the organisation into its next stage of development, inspiring and delivering a clear, compelling vision for the future of Surrey Chambers.
• Drive Strategic Prioritisation: Balance the interests of members, customers, and colleagues with commercial success, while staying true to our social purpose.
• Civic Leadership: Serve as an advocate for the business community and its role in society. Working with other organisations to position the county to take advantage of immediate opportunities and to face the long-term challenges.
• Manage Organisational Transition: Lead the internal and external transitions in this period of change, ensuring continuity while embracing innovation and change.

About the person

We are seeking a dynamic leader with a unique mix of skills: part organisational CEO, part private sector entrepreneur, and part civic leader. The ideal candidate will bring the following qualities:

• A proven ability to inspire and lead a high-performing organisation.
• Strong entrepreneurial instincts, combined with strategic and operational acumen.
• The ability to represent the interests of the business community at local, county, and national levels.
• A deep commitment to regional economic development and a passion for making a positive, long-term impact on society.
• This is a unique opportunity for an exceptional leader to leave their mark on an organisation that plays a vital role in shaping the future of the Surrey Chambers and the UK.

How to Apply

To apply for this role, please prepare your CV and covering letter describing your skills and experience, including examples by answering the questions below:

Question 1 - Explain why you are interested in the CEO role at Surrey Chambers of Commerce and how your values and vision align with our mission?

Question 2 Please describe your leadership philosophy. What is your leadership style, decision-making approach, and how do you lead teams through growth, change, or challenge?

Question 3 - What do you see as the key opportunities and challenges of the role of CEO at Surrey Chambers?

Please send these to the Board of Surrey Chambers, in confidence, care of:

(url removed) .

Surrey Chambers is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all staff and job applicants. We aim to create a working environment where all individuals can utilise their skills to the fullest, free from discrimination and harassment, and where all decisions are based on merit.

All applications will be held in the strictest confidence.