Boyce assumes role as chamber general manager
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 27/09/2024 (350 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce has a new general manager.
Olivia Boyce, who has a background in non-profit work and social enterprise development, takes over from Connor Ketchen, who was in the position for two and a half years.
Ketchen will move on to his new role as director of the Assiniboine College Foundation and Alumni Relations.
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s new general manager, Olivia Boyce, stands in front of the chamber offices on Tuesday morning. (Abiola Odutola/The Brandon Sun)
Boyce told the Sun she intends to build on the momentum and direction established by her predecessor and the chamber team.
“I don’t have any specific changes planned,” she said in an interview. “The team has done a great job, and I’m happy to continue building on the momentum that’s already here, supporting the local business community and maintaining the strong engagement seen in recent events.”
Boyce highlighted the strong turnout at recent chamber events, including Business After 5 at the Keystone Centre, and said she plans to maintain that level of engagement.
Boyce’s career has been focused on food security initiatives. Recently, she completed an MBA in community economic development with a focus on municipal food policy.
“I’ve always worked in Brandon and across Manitoba, and the business community here means a lot to me,” Boyce said.
“My experience in community development aligns with the chamber’s role in supporting local businesses.”
Boyce joined the chamber in June as its membership co-ordinator, giving her the opportunity to connect with members and learn about the challenges and opportunities they face.
During Ketchen’s time as general manager, he said, the chamber focused on post-pandemic recovery, rekindling business relationships and organizing events such as the state of the city and state of the province luncheons.
Ketchen also oversaw the launch of the Leadership Brandon program, a key initiative developed in partnership with Westman Immigrant Services.
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s new general manager, Olivia Boyce, stands in front of the chamber offices on Tuesday morning. (Abiola Odutola/The Brandon Sun)
“It’s been the most rewarding position I’ve ever held,” Ketchen told the Sun. “When I started, the focus was still on post-pandemic recovery, but businesses have reopened and we’ve been able to get events moving again. A big part of our work was also strengthening our relationship with the provincial government.”
Boyce said she sees the chamber as a central part of the business community’s growth, noting that her focus will be on ensuring that the chamber continues to support Brandon’s businesses. While she does not foresee any immediate obstacles, she acknowledged that unexpected events, like the COVID-19 pandemic, can arise.
“There’s always going to be something, but I’m here for the challenge,” she said.
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