Delivering a Successful Chief Executive Appointment for Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce
We were proud to be chosen to support the appointment of a new Chief Executive for Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce. A pivotal leadership role with real influence across the local business community.
Appointing the right person to a position of this importance was about far more than filling a vacancy; it was about finding a leader with the vision, credibility, and experience to help shape the future of business across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
This month marks thRe successful conclusion of that search – A rigorous, rewarding recruitment process that brought together senior leadership talent from a range of sectors and backgrounds. From the outset, the focus was on identifying an individual who could lead with confidence, build strong relationships across the region, and make a meaningful impact in one of Staffordshire’s most important business-facing organisations.
A Partnership Built on Shared Values
Our journey began back in November, when we met with the Chamber’s recruitment panel for the initial assignment briefing. The focus was on defining what the future l leadership of the Chamber should look like — identifying the skills, experience, and personal qualities needed to lead such a diverse and influential organisation.
For us, this assignment carried particular significance. As a Staffordshire-born business, Logic Resourcing has long benefited from the Chamber’s support. Since launching in 2017, we’ve taken part in mentoring programmes, peer networking groups, and business festivals. That firsthand experience gave us a strong understanding of the Chamber’s role in supporting businesses across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, and of the importance of appointing the right leader to continue that work.
A Thorough and Competitive Search
The recruitment process formally began in December, with a highly active January dedicated to candidate engagement and interviews. We spoke with a wide range of senior leaders from Staffordshire, Cheshire, and further afield, with experience spanning the commercial, public, private, and charitable sectors.
The breadth of interest reflected the complexity of the role. Leading a Chamber of Commerce requires a rare combination of strategic vision, stakeholder engagement, commercial awareness, and community leadership. With that in mind, we took great care in building a shortlist of candidates who could bring both credibility and long-term impact to the position.
As a recruitment business based in Stoke-on-Trent, we understand how important senior leadership appointments are to organisations across Staffordshire. Roles at this level require a thoughtful approach, and this search was no exception. It called for a process that balanced professionalism, insight, and a clear understanding of what strong executive leadership looks like in practice.
Following this stage, we presented a selection of candidates to the recruitment panel, who then refined the shortlist further for face-to-face interviews.
A Rigorous Final Assessment
The final stage of the process culminated in a full-day assessment held at the Chamber. This was a comprehensive and demanding experience for candidates, designed to assess them from multiple angles.
The day included:
- A psychometric assessment
- A media and communications exercise
- A formal panel interview with the recruitment board
- Engagement sessions with key stakeholders, including Chamber employees, patrons, local council representatives, and members of the wider business community
This well-rounded process ensured that the successful candidate was not only strong on paper, but also able to build trust and connect with the diverse groups they will work alongside.
Appointing the Right Leader
After a highly competitive process and careful deliberation, we were delighted to support the appointment of an outstanding candidate, who will take up the role in April 2026.
The successful individual brings a strong mix of commercial, public, and private sector experience. Importantly, they have already delivered meaningful impact within a Chamber of Commerce environment, alongside a highly successful commercial career. That combination positions them strongly to lead the organisation into its next chapter.
Stuart Elford – Newley Appointed Chief Executive
Looking Ahead
This was a fantastic assignment to be part of — not only professionally, but personally as a business rooted in Staffordshire. Supporting the Chamber in securing its next Chief Executive is something we’re incredibly proud of.
We wish the successful candidate every success in their new role and have no doubt they will be a valuable asset to the business community across Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, and beyond.
Senior Leadership & C-Suite Recruitment Experts
Senior leadership and C-suite recruitment is what we do best. We love helping organisations across the Midlands and the wider region secure exceptional leadership talent. From board-level appointments to specialist senior roles, we work closely with businesses to identify people who can make a lasting impact. To find out more about our approach to senior recruitment and executive search, contact our team today.
Email info@logicreosurcing.com
Telephone: 01782 489784