New CEO of Cornwall Chamber of Commerce: John Brown to be the voice of business in Cornwall

John Brown has been announced as the new CEO of Cornwall Chamber of Commerce. With over 15 years of business experience, he will be the new voice of Cornish business and has pledged to “support, fight for and deliver across the whole Cornish economy”.

John is set to take over the reins of Cornwall Chamber of Commerce – an independent, not-for-profit organization representing Cornish business interests locally, regionally, nationally and internationally – since the beginning of July. He takes over from Kim Conchie, who is retiring after more than 12 years in office.

With experience in branding and communications, John has worked with brands such as Virgin, Cook, lululemon, Bird, Frugi, Go Pro, Natura and Vivobarefoot. He most recently founded and ran Don’t Cry Wolf, a creative agency with brand activism at its core, and is a renowned podcaster, B Corp ambassador and keynote speaker. He is also completing an MA in Sustainable Futures at the University of Exeter, Penryn Campus and volunteers as a Parish Councilor on Mevagissey Parish Council.

The appointment is based on the Chamber’s progressive spirit – a quality that sets it apart from its counterparts across the country.

Laura Whyte, Board Chair of Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, comments: “John has incredible drive. Through his experience in brand communication and activism, he will continue to put the Chamber at the forefront of the business sector. Having been in the shoes of business owners, John can appreciate the challenges they face and the support they need.”

John adds: “I want the world to know that Cornwall is the blueprint for the future economy and to invest, learn and collaborate with every element of our rich business tapestry.

“Every major area is represented in the 1,375 square miles of this gorgeous landscape. How will we feed ourselves? Power to ourselves. We get dressed. Exploring new materials and metals, new modes of travel, even beyond the boundaries of our own atmosphere! Push the boundaries of excellence in hospitality, tourism and creativity. All the while nurturing both a ferocious community spirit and an ingrained sense of planetary stewardship.

“It is my great privilege to support, fight and deliver across the whole Cornish economy. From exciting micro-businesses to pioneering corporations.

“Whether it’s investment, policy change, awareness or engagement, I’m focused on representing the voice of Cornish business as we navigate a new economic era.”

Kim will continue to play an active role in the Cornwall business community as a Chamber board member as well as through a wide range of business and education positions. This includes the Chair of Trustees at the Cornwall Community Foundation, a member of the Truro & Penwith College Employment & Business Board and a Deputy Lieutenant of Cornwall.

“I have had an amazing 12 years at the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce. In that time and with the support of a brilliant team, we have cultivated a brand image that the Chamber and our members can be proud of and launched vital initiatives such as Planet C and 30 Under 30. I am proud to have been in this role. at a time when business confidence was on an upward trajectory, but now is the right time to hand over the reins.

“I am delighted with John’s appointment and delighted that the Chamber will be led by someone of such a high caliber and with such a passion for growth. This is the start of an exciting new chapter for Cornwall’s business community.”

In his first month as CEO, John is keen to welcome as many Chamber members as possible. Meet John by joining the Chamber Connected lunch Wednesday 3^st July at Falmouth Golf Club and at Cornwall Business Fair Wednesday the 17th^th July at Truro School to find out more.