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James O'Connor
Executive director
Hired in the summer of 2022, James brought with him many years of experience in media management, graphics, communications, marketing and community outreach. Those skills will come in handy, as the Executive Director is responsible for all communications, membership growth, program development and advocacy research as directed by the Board of Directors.
The ED also builds relationships with politicians, business associations and other chambers. The latter especially includes the five community chambers the NWT Chamber is charged with representing: Thebacha, Hay River, Fort Simpson, Yellowknife and Norman Wells. The chamber in Inuvik is currently on hiatus.
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Two chambers co-operate on housing advocacy
The NWT Chamber of Commerce joined with the NWT Chamber of Commerce to meet with a group of Conservative Members of Parliament travelling through the North discussing housing strategy and other economic issues. While the two Chambers have similar, but distinct, mission statements, there is some overlap and that's when we will work together. In this photo, Yellowknife realtor and former city councillor Adrian Bell, at left in white shirt, speaks with delegation lead Edmonton MP Matt Jeneroux. Adrian is in the unique position of serving as a director on the boards of both Chambers. At far left is NWT Chamber ED James O'Connor and at left in the background is Yellowknife Chamber ED Melissa Syer.
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The NWT Chamber of Commerce, as with most other similar organizations, is funded primarily through member dues. Occasionally, there will be a government program which provides funding specific coverage for training opportunities and, of course, for crucial support through the 2020-2021 pandemic.
The NWT Chamber also seeks out sponsorships and other partners to enhance our ability to promote and present seminars, trade shows and other events. The primary reason chambers exist in communities and regions throughout North America is to serve the needs of the local business community. The reason these organizations are so numerous is because they work!
Whether it’s referrals, important contacts, educational opportunities, public policy advocacy work or savings on business essentials, a Chamber membership can more than pay for itself. Who speaks for the business community in the face of anti-development forces? Chambers do.
#ShopLocal #InvestLocal #JoinUs #OneVoice
