Chamber announces 2021 Member of the Year

“John is someone that knows everyone, He’s a familiar face at Chamber mixers and was one of the people who helped make our virtual events so successful this year,” says John Wilson, chair of The Chamber’s Board of Directors. “We’re delighted to recognize John for his support and I look forward to celebrating with him in 2021, as we continue working to rebuild and add resilience to Greater Victoria’s economy.”

Espley is a vocal champion of The Chamber and has been involved with the organization since the 1990s. Currently the Chief Connector for Connection Skills, Espley served as Chair of The Chamber’s Board of Directors in 2007. He is now a member of the Chamber’s Board of Governors.

“He is one of the strongest supporters of The Chamber I’ve ever met,” says Agilus Work Solutions’ Branch Manager Rose Arsenault, who nominated Espley and was herself Chamber Member of the Year for 2019. “John is always positive, always sharing information about the organization. He believes in the value of being a member and is always singing the praises of Chamber activities and advocacy efforts.”

The Chamber Member of the Year award recognizes an individual who has served as a volunteer at The Chamber, has taken an active role with the board or committees, fosters relationships with the community and advocates on behalf of business.

“2020 has been an exceptional year so it’s appropriate that an exceptionally strong Chamber advocate be named as Member of the Year,” says Chamber CEO Bruce Williams.

In January, The Chamber will announce the winner of the Governors’ Award of Distinction, which honours a Chamber member for outstanding leadership and accomplishments over the decades.

Nominations for 12 categories of the 2021 Greater Victoria Business Awards are open now until Jan. 25, 2021. Finalists will be announced in February. For more information, go to Victoriachamber.ca/business-awards.

The Chamber’s mission is to serve Greater Victoria by working together to build good business and great community. We work with our members, including our Chamber Champions, to make life better in Greater Victoria through advocacy, networking events, professional development and other unique activities.Find out more at VictoriaChamber.ca.