‘Real privilege’ for chamber’s new president Dr Conor Patterson
Dr. Conor Patterson has been elected to serve as the new President of Newry Chamber of Commerce & Trade.
He takes over from outgoing president, Edwina Flynn, whose two-year term has now come to an end.
Dr. Patterson is the Chief Executive of Newry and Mourne Co-operative & Enterprise Agency and has been actively involved in the economic regeneration of Newry and Mourne and the Northern Ireland/ Republic of Ireland East Border Region since the mid-1990s.
In taking over at the helm of Newry Chamber for the second time - having served two years in the role from 2009-2011 - he becomes only the third person in the chamber’s long and rich 205-year history to serve more than one term as president, following in the footsteps of William V. Hogg and Eddie Mackle.
Gary Digney, Restructuring & Recovery Partner at AAB Group, will remain in post as vice-president, with Tracy Rice, Head of Business Engagement at Southern Regional College, being elected as a second vice-president.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Patterson, said: “I feel extremely honoured to be appointed as President of Newry Chamber of Commerce & Trade for the second time.
“It is a real privilege to be asked to lead this historic chamber, one of Ireland’s oldest and most respected chambers, representing business in the Greater Newry Area since 1820.
“I would like to thank outgoing president, Edwina Flynn for her deep commitment, positive energy and phenomenal leadership over the last two years and her ability to meet all challenges head on with her trademark positive outlook.
“I am looking forward to working with our CEO, Michael Savage, and the impressive chamber team. There are undoubtedly challenging times ahead as we face an uncertain new year. However, I’m optimistic.
“The chamber has never been in a stronger position with an active and engaged membership of 325 businesses. During my presidency, I promise to do my best to represent and support our members and the other key stakeholders in Newry with whom it is essential that we work collaboratively.”
Newry Chamber represents more than 325 businesses and organisations in the Greater Newry Area.