HAMPSHIRE Chamber of Commerce is set to strengthen its lobbying clout and member services following a strategic review of operations.

Moves include a reshuffling of some staff positions, a recruitment drive in the north of the county, a new Southampton office, and closer alignment with the look and feel of the national chamber network.

The review was informed by a member survey asking for feedback on business representation, training, communications and networking opportunities.

Respondents said they would like more chamber training on subjects such as Brexit planning, data protection, corporate governance and cyber security.

And they felt the most useful chamber representation to politicians and policy makers is on issues such as infrastructure development, regional business support, lower business taxes and the ultimate shape of the Brexit deal.

On networking opportunities, members set out their preferences for attending business exhibitions, behind-the-scenes company visits and policy input meetings, and hearing from guest speakers at business breakfasts and lunches.

“We gained some excellent feedback from members which we have now put into a clear, actionable road map,” said Ross McNally, Hampshire Chamber’s Executive Chairman. “The steps we are taking are designed to strengthening our lobbying influence in what is a very uncertain period for business.

“At the same time, we are enhancing our ability to be responsive to the needs of our members for training, networking and other services.

“It’s all about ensuring we provide tailor-made, beneficial and relevant activities and services to help the Hampshire business community to prosper.”

One part of the review looked at the chamber’s office accommodation, prompting a move for its Southampton office after three years at Southampton Solent University. A new city centre office is opening this month at Brunswick Place. Other offices, including its Fareham headquarters, remain unchanged.

A reshuffling of the chamber team will see a greater harmonisation of roles and new posts for business development, marketing and membership services managers in Basingstoke.

New member services, informed by the survey feedback, will come on-stream in the autumn in line with continual investment in new technology,

A fresh logo in the style of the British Chambers of Commerce is also appearing on marketing literature, the chamber website and social media.

Ross explained: “By making this change Hampshire Chamber can clearly be seen as part of the wider national network, benefiting from its brand identity both regionally and nationally.”