Job Description
For over 200 years, Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce has been a trusted, independent voice for business - supporting entrepreneurs, SMEs and major employers across our county. They champion growth, opportunity and prosperity, helping businesses belong, connect and thrive.
This is a meaningful opportunity for a commercially astute, people-focused leader who is passionate about Staffordshire - ready to create real impact across the business community and play a pivotal role in shaping the county's economic future.
What you'll do:
As Chief Executive, you will lead the next chapter of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce - setting direction, strengthening commercial position, and representing the voice of business across the county. You'll:
* Lead delivery of the Board's strategy and drive the Chamber's commercial growth.
* Build strong, trusted relationships with MPs, councils, business leaders and key partners.
* Grow and strengthen membership so the Chamber remains the place businesses want to belong.
* Provide clear financial leadership, overseeing budgets, as well as leading and managing funding bids.
* Shape and amplify the Chamber's policy and advocacy voice through our Council, forums and wider stakeholder networks.
The Chamber is in a strong position. Respected, stable and purposeful, and there is real freedom to shape its future. It's not broken; this is about taking something good and making it great.
What we're looking for:
We are seeking a leader who brings a blend of commercial sharpness, strategic vision and a natural ability to build and foster relationships. This may be your next-step CEO role, or you may already be operating at the executive level. We are especially interested in candidates who:
* Have a strong track record of leading change and driving growth in a senior leadership role
* Have experience modernising or transforming an organisation - respecting its heritage while bringing fresh thinking and steady improvement
* Are passionate about Staffordshire and about supporting SMEs, start-ups and scale-ups, and can speak credibly across the whole business community
* Bring strong financial and commercial acumen, with the ability to diversify income and increase commercially generated revenue
* Lead with authenticity: supportive, empowering, non-micromanaging, and able to take people with them on the journey
* Are based locally or committed to spending time in Staffordshire each week
* Can confidently engage MPs, councils, universities and senior business leaders across the area
Role Details:
Package: Circa £120,000 + Pension & Benefits
Organisation: Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce
Location: Stoke on Trent - 35 hours hybrid working, Monday to Friday, with additional out-of-hours required at times
The deadline for applications is Friday, 23rd January 2026, however, early submission is advised