‘When businesses thrive, communities thrive’ - PCC Donna Jones joins the Hampshire Chamber board

Donna Jones, police and crime commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, has joined the board of Hampshire Chamber as non-executive director.

She’s set to work alongside chief executive Ross McNally, president Peter Taylor, and her fellow directors in shaping the chamber’s strategic growth over the coming years.

Born in Portsmouth, Donna worked in banking and investment management before her election to Portsmouth City Council in 2008, where she served as executive leader from 2014 to 2018.

Since rising to PCC in May 2021, Donna has overseen a £500 million budget for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, recruiting a new chief constable and 600 additional officers.

She’s also a business owner with a long track record on the boards of various companies, as well as being director of Solent Local Enterprise Partnership for four years.

Donna said: “As someone with over 25 years working in business and private enterprise, I’m delighted to be joining the board of Hampshire Chamber.

“The chamber is a vital enterprise community supporting businesses with innovation, engagement and advocacy, which I’m honoured to be a part of.

“I’ve spent the last 15 years supporting businesses and being an interface into government, delivering on my passion to grow the GVA of the South East region.

“The future growth of businesses across Hampshire is vital to the success of the 1.8 million people living and working in the county.

“When businesses thrive, communities thrive, providing us with the foundation to build a better, safer, more prosperous region for the next generation.

“I’m looking forward to working with chamber members to find collaborative solutions across the public and private sectors and to interface with the government where required.”

Ross McNally added: “Donna understands business, was the leader of a major city in our region, and will be a wise head to have around our table.

“Her experience, knowledge, ideas and energy will be invaluable.

“At the same time, she’s expressed a strong desire to gain a better understanding of issues facing our members, including our many SMEs, so she can reflect that in her conversations with senior police figures.

“We look forward to working together with Donna in support of the business community.”

• hampshirechamber.co.uk

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