Gavin McDonagh, managing director of Holt Leisure Parks Ltd, has taken over as president of Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce, a role he will hold for the next two years.
The business organisation’s AGM and BBQ at Gourock Golf Club was the setting for the presidency handover from Linda Scott, who works with Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions Ltd (TGCS). She was the first to serve in the post as it changed its name from Greenock to Inverclyde Chamber in June 2016.
Born and bred in Inverclyde, Gavin is based at Kip Marina and has worked with Holt since 1982 as company accountant, company secretary, financial director and, ultimately, managing director. He has been an integral part of the expansion of the Holt group of companies including holiday parks, marinas, farms, fish farms, even a BAFTA winning film and TV company!
Anne Campbell, assistant principal of West College Scotland, becomes vice president. Her faculty covers health and social care, childhood practice, social science, science, maths, sport and learner development. Previously, she occupied various roles during her 13 years with James Watt College.
“Inverclyde Chamber provides valuable services along with a range of networking initiatives to businesses of all sizes,” said Gavin, who has been a board director since 2014 and becomes the 127th president since it was established by Royal Charter in November 1813.
“I’m delighted to be taking on the role of president for the next two years, serving this dynamic, member-led organisation, which exists to support the local business community and specifically its vibrant network of member businesses.
The Board and I are aware of the economic times that we are enduring and the hard work that will be involved in the coming years; however; with working proactively with Scottish Government, Westminster, Inverclyde Council and Scottish Chambers of Commerce, we can ensure that we will derive the best returns and outcome for our membership. Thanks to Linda for the past two years and we hope to build on all her hard work.
Commenting on the handover, Linda Scott said: “It has been a great privilege to hold the post of president over the past two years. As I continue to serve on the board as immediate past president, I wish Gavin all the very best in his two years in office as president.”
The AGM was followed by a family BBQ at Gourock Golf Club, where members, family and friends also enjoyed entertainment from Scotland’s only virtual reality party provider, VR Party Scotland.
