March 31st, 2017
Wow, where has the time gone. It has been said in our fast-paced Social Media aided world that time is only relevant to those who actually need to acknowledge it. If that is the case, the last two-years have certainly flown by.
In the role as Chair of the Dufferin Board of Trade since April 1st, 2015, time was in fact relevant as the organization embarked on an ambitious change from the previous Chamber of Commerce to a more advocacy-based representative of the business community of Dufferin County.
Leading an incredible Board made up of some of the most talented and well-respected professionals in our region, to guiding and nurturing an absolutely passionate DBOT administrative team, my job as Chair really has been an easy one.
With such a foundation the Dufferin Board of Trade has truly become the voice of business aligning with the evolving economic needs of Dufferin County.
By embracing and spearheading the need for a new strategic plan to solidifying our partnerships and relationships at local, regional and provincial levels, I truly believe that the Dufferin Board of Trade is ready to move to its next phase of assisting the business community on the issues they face on a daily basis.
Yes, there have been some incredible highlights during this two-year tenure. Having DBOT's connection to the OCC - Ontario Chamber of Commerce evolve, to celebrating business excellence at our BEA's - Business Excellence Awards, I have been honoured to rub shoulders with so many inspiring people.
As the DBOT welcomes Peter Renshaw as the new Chair-Elect, I know that this organization is in great hands moving ahead. Pete's past and current roles within our community are assets in which the DBOT will benefit from his leadership.
I look forward embracing the 'Past-Chair' role on the DBOT, more importantly I hope that time will slow down just a bit so that I can embrace even more so what this great organization is all about.
Joe Andrews - Chair
Dufferin Board of Trade
