IT’S all change at Bracknell’s chamber of commerce group as Tony Bellis takes over the leadership of the body.

Mr Bellis, who replaces Peter Smith as President and Chair of the Bracknell Local Chamber Advisory Group (LCAG), is the head of public sector market development and government affairs at Bracknell-based manufacturing company 3M.

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Setting out his vision for Bracknell LCAG, he said: "The immediate priority for the Bracknell LCAG is to refresh the policy priorities for 2020.

“This will be the catalyst for helping to shape and frame policies that will support a robust business community.

“Strengthening regional infrastructure networks, seeking appropriate financial injections to improve local services, showcasing sector and market strengths, and developing relationships with all levels of education, will be prioritised.

“Additionally, fostering stronger business practices, promoting Bracknell as a destination for foreign direct investment, and identifying pilot projects that can help long-term strategies and policies for the region will also be core to our work.”

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The Bracknell advisory group is part of the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, which supports businesses and traders in their communities.

Tony added: "“Engaging with our local business community on both national and local issues is key to our future success and maintaining our strong position in the Thames Valley.

“With significant business clusters including technology, life sciences, financial and professional services, we need to continue attracting and retaining high calibre companies and people to the region from an array of sectors."

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Peter Smith was the Bracknell LCAG figurehead for seven years before stepping down last year.

Tony said: “I would like to thank Peter for his contribution to the Chamber.

“For many years, he has been the driving force behind ensuring the region gets the positive recognition it deserves as a progressive and innovative area.”

Tony has worked at 3M for 25 years and is also a Director of the Association of British Health Technology Industries (ABHI), a Trustee of the Industry and Parliament Trust and is on the South East Council of the Confederation of British Industry.