Wayne Jones named new chair of Greater Manchester Chamber at ‘pivotal moment’ for reborn business group

‘I’m proud to take on this role at such an important time for the organisation’

Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce has appointed past president Wayne Jones OBE as its new chair in a move it says “marks a new chapter for the organisation, but one rooted firmly in continuity”.

The Chamber was sold out of administration last year, with directors vowing a “seamless transition” of its business support services. Now Mr Jones, who has been a Chamber board member for more than a decade, is to succeed Phil Cusack as chair.

Mr Jones serves on the Liverpool-Manchester Railway Partnership Board and was in 2016 named a Global Ambassador for Manchester. He was previously a member of the executive board of MAN Energy (now Everllence).

In a statement, the Chamber said: “His appointment comes at a pivotal moment. Greater Manchester Chamber is entering its first full financial year as a new organisation, and the role of Chair has never carried more weight. With the organisation navigating a period of genuine evolution, the Chair’s responsibilities extend beyond the boardroom: providing leadership, representing the Chamber’s voice externally, and maintaining the confidence of the business community across all ten boroughs of Greater Manchester.”

Mr Jones said: “Greater Manchester has always been a place that punches above its weight, and the Chamber has a vital role to play in making sure businesses here have the support, the platform and the representation they deserve. I’m proud to take on this role at such an important time for the organisation, and I’m looking forward to getting to work.”

Emma Holt, president of the Chamber, added: “Wayne has been part of the foundation of this organisation for a significant period. He knows what we stand for, he knows what Greater Manchester needs, and he has the credibility and the drive to help us move forward with purpose. We’re delighted to welcome him into this role.”

The Chamber also paid tribute to Phil Cusak’s “service and commitment” to the organisation.