A DEDICATED leader who saved Halton Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise from the brink of extinction is handing over the reins to a new successor.

Paula Cain is standing down after serving as chief executive for seven years.

Rachael Owen, who currently works as a business growth hub broker on behalf of Halton Council and the chamber will take over in August.

Dr Peter Cook, chairman of the chamber, said: “During Paula’s seven years at Halton Chamber she has worked unstintingly to develop its role and put it on a more secure financial footing.

“She has driven up its reputation within the Halton business community and with regional stakeholders and has led the organisation through some very difficult challenges.

“The chamber has benefitted greatly from her skills, experience, hard work, leadership and drive.

“The membership has grown significantly. We have more services and support available to local businesses.

“We know Paula has still to confirm her future plans but whatever direction she takes, we all wish her every success and happiness for the future.”

Paula received a special award for services to business and the chamber at Halton Business Awards.

Presenting the accolade, David Parr, chief executive of Halton Council, said: “Paula has transformed the chamber from the brink of extinction to a chamber that is thriving.”

A record 310 people attended the event hailed as a ‘tremendous testament’ to Paula’s achievement.

Rachael Owen brings considerable experience and expertise to her new role.

She holds an MBA from Manchester Metropolitan University and a post graduate marketing diploma from the Chartered Institute of Marketing. She worked as an advisor with Business Link, marketing manager with IDG Media, college lecturer and business growth manager with Grant Thornton.

Dr Cook added: We are delighted to welcome Rachael as Paula’s successor. Rachael has extensive experience in both the private and public sectors, working in marketing, account management and business growth.

“The chamber’s executive group interviewed Rachael and were extremely impressed with her skills, knowledge, experience, ability, desire and enthusiasm to build on Paula’s work and take the chamber forward. We are looking forward to working with her.”