The Geelong Chamber of Commerce has announced Jeremy Crawford as its new chief executive, commencing at the beginning of April.
Mr Crawford will take over from current Chamber CEO Ben Flynn, who announced late last year he would step down from the position to enjoy more time with his family.
Having begun his career in hospitality, hotels and major events, Mr Crawford has held senior positions with the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, Rydges and as chief executive of the Werribee Racing Club.
He joins the Chamber from Medibank, where he has served as Head of Talent Acquisition and more recently as Senior Partnerships Manager.
Mr Crawford said he had not planned to leave Medibank but couldn’t pass up the opportunity to take on the top job at the Chamber.
“For me, it was such an interesting opportunity at the right time, when there’s so much happening in the region,” Mr Crawford said.
“When I thought about some of the incredible events and opportunities that are just around the corner, I had a real motivation to be involved somehow.”
Mr Crawford said the Geelong Chamber of Commerce had played an important role in the region for a very long time, and while he had general ideas on the Chamber’s direction in the future he was in no rush to make sweeping changes.
“This role has the privilege of being able to balance a rich history and tradition and work with an incredible board and team mission to keep moving forward,” he said.
“The Chamber has had long-term success playing the role of connecting people and businesses to each other and to opportunities.
“I see opportunities to perhaps broaden some of the service offerings to business, and that’s something we’ll explore over the coming years, but it’s really early for me to start putting in place a new vision.
“I think one approach we’ll take as an organisation is for the Chamber to be a representative body for all business. We’ll do a deep dive into what current members are looking for, and also get a better understanding of what some non-members are looking for.”
Chair of the Geelong Chamber board, Dr John Stekelenberg, said he was pleased to appoint Mr Crawford as the new chief executive.
“Jeremy brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our organisation, having worked with business entities and leading corporate partnerships,” Dr Stekelenberg said.
“He has great charisma and passion for the Geelong region. The selection panel were impressed by Jeremy’s enthusiasm and are certain he’ll connect very well with our vibrant membership community.
“We are confident that he will provide exceptional leadership as we continue to support and promote the growth of local businesses in the Geelong area.
“We would like to thank Ben Flynn for all his work as CEO over the last four years and the smooth transition through to Jeremy Crawford.”
