We have some important updates to share with you, and we want you to hear them directly from us.
Our focus is unwavering
To deliver exceptional value to our members through Advocacy, — including our highly valued A Connected North initiative — Build connections and capability, and Celebrate, most visibly through the upcoming Northland Business Excellence Awards. Everything we are doing right now is in service of that mission.
Leadership update
Tim Robinson has stepped into the role of Interim CEO on a part-time basis while the Board takes a deliberate and considered approach to resourcing NorthChamber for its next chapter. To maintain full independence in this role, Tim has temporarily stepped down from the Board. We are grateful for his commitment and steady hand.
Marcela Thompson, current Board Member, has been appointed Board Chair for this period. Marcela brings strong business acumen and deep Northland roots, and the Board is in capable hands.
A word on our team
Our team has always been one of our greatest strengths, and that remains true. Paulette Scrooby has been a cornerstone of our community for six years, and we are genuinely proud of her decision to pursue her long-held goal of a career in Occupational Therapy. This has been her plan, long in the making — and we are sending her off with huge respect. To ensure continuity, Paulette will continue in a casual capacity during the handover and has been co-opted to the Board in an advisory role through this transition.
Brittany Edwards joins us as Business Awards Campaign Coordinator, now in her third week and already making her mark. The Awards are on track and in good hands.
This is a reset, not a retreat
The Board is using this interim period intentionally — to sharpen our focus, re-align our team around what matters most to members, and ensure NorthChamber is set up to deliver with strength and clarity. We are not standing still; we are building forward.
The Northland Business Excellence Awards are progressing. Our advocacy work continues. And our events — including BA5s and Chamber Chats — are running as planned.
Ngā mihi,
Marcela Thompson, Board Chair
on behalf of the NorthChamber Board
