The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry today announces that Chief Executive Paul Guerra has advised of his decision to step down from his role, after more than five years of outstanding service.
Paul commenced as Chief Executive in February 2020. His leadership was critical in steering the business community through the COVID-19 pandemic, with the Victorian Chamber playing a pivotal role in providing advice to government, advocating for business support and elevating the voice of business.
Under Paul’s leadership, the Victorian Chamber was central to the advocacy efforts that helped shape critical support measures, including the Federal JobKeeper scheme and the State Government’s Business Support Grants and Business Mentoring program.
Paul led the development and implementation of the landmark Victoria Summit 2021 which united leaders from a range of sectors to shape a long-term vision for the State. Other highlights include the merger of the Melbourne Chamber of Commerce and Committee for Melbourne, delivering a globally recognised women in business program in Chamber Change, and winning the global rights to co-host the 14th World Chambers Congress (14WCC), which will be held in Melbourne from 2 to 4 September this year.
The Victorian Chamber Board has commenced a selection process for Paul’s replacement, with Paul remaining in the role until after the 14WCC in September.
To be attributed to Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Adrian Kloeden:
“Paul will be leaving the Victorian Chamber to take on an exciting new job. The Board congratulates him and wishes him every success in the next chapter of his career. The organisation is in great shape and is well equipped to transition to a new Chief Executive. The Board is confident of attracting a field of high-quality candidates for this important and prestigious role.
“Paul’s passion, dedication and strategic leadership have strengthened the Victorian Chamber and made a lasting difference for our members and the Victorian economy.
“On behalf of the Board, our members and the team, I thank Paul for his tireless efforts, his clear voice for business and his unwavering commitment to making Victoria the best place to live, work and operate a business.”
To be attributed to Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive Paul Guerra:
“It has been an incredible privilege to serve as Chief Executive of one of Victoria’s most enduring and respected organisations and to lead such a committed and talented team. I am proud of what we have achieved together, from delivering vital support to businesses when they needed it most, to driving major policy reforms and helping set a long-term vision for our great state.
“The pandemic had a massive impact - not just for me personally, but for the entire business community. It tested resilience, demanded agility and taught us all the true meaning of leadership and advocacy under pressure. That experience went on to define the entirety of my tenure and shaped the work we have done together to strengthen Victorian businesses and the broader economy.
“I want to sincerely thank Victorian Chamber President Adrian Kloeden, the Board, Executive Team and our wider team, and every business owner, operator and employee I have had the pleasure to meet and work alongside. Your passion, resilience and belief in a better Victoria have been a constant source of inspiration.”
Contact details:
Mikkayla Mossop, [email protected], 0423 883 945
