Q: When is an AGM not an AGM?

A: When it’s a fond farewell!

Most Annual General Meetings are thought of as cures for insomnia, but Worthing and Adur Chamber bucked against this idea with a very special AGM this month, here’s what happened…

For the last fourteen years Peter Bennett has led Worthing and Adur Chamber of Commerce as its President. In that time the Chamber has evolved beyond recognition. Peter became President in 2003 and one of the first things he did was lead the Chamber into the digital age. Worthing Chamber of Commerce (as it was then) needed to widen its appeal and Peter drove the expansion into the Adur region, changing its name to Worthing and Adur Chamber of Commerce.

Sadly, Peter decided it was time for him to step down as President and at the recent AGM Peter handed the reins over to Chris Coopey, Practice Director of MHA Carpenter Box. The meeting started formally enough with the usual ratifying of accounts etc but things took a slightly different turn when it came to thanking Peter for his service to the Chamber. Gifts were handed out, chains of office removed and tissues found!

We wish Peter well and we thank him wholeheartedly for his leadership and the huge difference he has made. Without Peter Bennett we would not have the Chamber we have today. Thank You Peter

That leaves us to now introduce the new Worthing and Adur Chamber President, Chris Coopey. Chris is Managing Partner at accountancy firm, MHA Carpenter Box, and previously served on the Chamber Executive Committee for a number of years. He takes the helm from Peter and has reassured members that he is looking to keep things on an even keel before making any drastic changes.

At the AGM he introduced himself to the attendees through some slides outlining his varied career so far. Not many knew he had previously served in the Army Reserves as an engineer or that he liked climbing telephone poles!

Chris said, “I’m looking forward to leading the Worthing and Adur Chamber and aim to have fun doing it. For me, being a member of our Chamber is an enjoyable thing. I want our members to be happy, both with what we offer and what they gain from membership too.”

We are sure this new Chapter is set to be an exciting time ahead and hope all the members and supporters of Worthing and Adur Chamber wish Chris and the Executive team much continued success following in the rather large footsteps of Peter Bennett.