The new chief executive officer of Cornwall Chamber of Commerce has been announced as John Brown. He picks up the baton from Kim Conchie, who is retiring in July following more than 12 years in the position.

With over 15 years of business experience, John has a background in brand building and communications, and has worked with brands such as Virgin, Cook, lululemon, Bird, Frugi, Go Pro, Natura and Vivobarefoot. Most recently, he founded creative agency Don’t Cry Wolf, and is a podcaster, B Corp ambassador and keynote speaker.

He is also completing a Masters in sustainable futures at the University of Exeter’s Penryn Campus, and volunteers as a parish councillor in Mevagissey.

Cornwall Chamber of Commerce is an independent, not-for-profit, membership organisation that represents Cornish business interests on a local, regional, national and international level.

“It’s my great privilege to support, fight for and deliver results to the full scope of the Cornish economy, from the exciting micro-businesses through to the pioneering corporates,” said John.

“I want the world to know that Cornwall is the blueprint for the future economy and to invest, learn from and collaborate with every element of our rich business tapestry.

“Every major area is represented in the 1,375 square miles of this gorgeous landscape: how we will feed, power, clothe ourselves; exploring new materials and metals, new ways of getting around, even beyond the boundaries of our own atmosphere; and pushing the edges of excellence in hospitality, tourism and creativity, all the while nurturing both a fierce community spirit coupled with an ingrained sense of planetary stewardship. 

“Whether it’s investment, policy change, awareness or engagement, my focus is on representing the Cornish business voice as we navigate a new economic era.”

Laura Whyte, chair of the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce Board, said: “John has incredible dynamism, and having stood in the shoes of business owners, he can appreciate the challenges they face and the support they need.”

Kim Conchie will remain a board member. He is also chair of trustees at Cornwall Community Foundation, a member of Truro & Penwith College’s employment and business board, and a Deputy Lieutenant of Cornwall.

“I have had an amazing 12 years at Cornwall Chamber of Commerce,” he said. “In that time and with the support of a brilliant team, we have launched vital initiatives such as Planet C and 30 Under 30. I am proud to have been in the role at a time when business confidence was on an upward trajectory, but the time is right to be handing over the reins.”

John will appear at the chamber’s Connected Lunch at Falmouth Golf Club on July 3 and the Cornwall Business Fair at Truro School on July 17.