Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce has named Emma Holt as its new chief executive to drive the organisation forward after “a period of significant change and genuine evolution”.

Emma Holt, who has decades of experience in law and academia and is currently Chamber president, will take up the CEO role next month.

Emma has 25 years experience in the legal profession, taking senior leadership roles including that of managing partner at Pannone. For the past seven years she has worked at Manchester Metropolitan University Business School as Programme Leader for the MBA, Global Online MBA and MSc Finance and Strategy programmes, She also leads modules in business law and a module focusing on employability skills for undergraduates.

As president of the Chamber she has focused on areas including diversity, equality, sustainability and skills.

Greater Manchester Chamber was sold out of administration last year, with managers vowing a “seamless transition” and the continuation of its core services. In a statement today, the Chamber said it was aiming “to strengthen its position as the definitive, independent voice of business in Greater Manchester”, and added that “Emma’s appointment sends a clear signal about the direction of travel”.

Wayne Jones OBE, chair of Greater Manchester Chamber, said: “The development of the Chamber over the past nine months has been clear for our members, and the wider business community, to see. Emma brings a wealth of experience, strong leadership insight, and a genuine understanding of our region. I have every confidence in this appointment. Emma will lead the organisation from strength to strength as we build on the solid foundations now in place.”

Emma said: ‘I am delighted to take up the role of CEO. At its heart, the Chamber is here for business. In this ever-changing world, I look forward to leading the Chamber in championing our business community and supporting the success and growth of business and the economy throughout the Greater Manchester city region; bringing together commerce, community and culture.”

Once Emma takes up her new role as CEO, a new Chamber President will be named.