Welcome to the family!
“On behalf of all Chamber members, I want to thank members of the Family Business Association for entrusting us with continuing their important work,” Chamber Chair Kris Wirk said. “We know how vital it is to foster strong relationships and build connections that will benefit our region’s economy for generations to come.”
The crux of the discussion at the meeting was that the FBA VI is looking at this change as the beginning of a new era, one that will expand help for family businesses and help successfully transition them to future generations.
“The Chamber and the Family Business Association of Vancouver Island share common goals, which made this an easier decision,” FBA Board President Dean Clarke said. “I feel confident that after collaborating over the last few months with Chamber Chair Kris Wirk and CEO Bruce Williams, this committee will help more family businesses benefit through the many programs and benefits offered.”
The result came after eight months of work by the FBA executive team, led by Barb Quinn, to craft a succession plan that bolsters the association’s support of family businesses. In March, FBA began working with The Chamber to form a Family Business Committee that will report directly to The Chamber’s Board.
The Chamber has a long history of committees that represent community stakeholders, including many that went on to become standalone organizations such as Destination Greater Victoria, VIATEC, Vancouver Island South Film Commission and the South Island Prosperity Partnership.
Over the next few months, The Chamber staff will be working with FBA members – 51% of which are already outstanding Chamber members – to find a new home at The Chamber. If you’re a family business and want to be a part of the Family Business Committee or attend some of the great workshops and programs focused on family business continuity and growth, email our membership team at chamber@victoriachamber.ca. We’ll have more details in the months to come.
About Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Since 1863, The Chamber has served Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community for all through advocacy, networking, professional development, and innovative services as changing times require. In 2020, the Chamber Champions initiative added a powerful resource to provide leadership and guidance to our organization. Current Champions are: Megson FitzPatrick (soon to be Acera Insurance), Berwick Retirement Companies, BC Ferries, Big Wheel Burger, CHEK Media Group, CIBC, Camosun College, ColdStar Solutions, H2 Accelerator, Knappett Projects, Mike Geric Construction, MNP, PARC Retirement Living, RBC, Scotiabank, Seaspan, Starlight Investments, TD Commercial Banking, TELUS Business, Times Colonist and the University of Victoria. Find out more at victoriachamber.ca.
Media Contact:
Jim Zeeben, Policy and Strategic Communication
Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
250 360-3471 | communications@victoriachamber.ca
