'Voice of business' strengthens team as Sarah joins in new role of Director of Commercial Operations

An experienced business professional has joined Hampshire Chamber of Commerce in the new role of Director of Commercial Operations.

Sarah Mills joins the county’s ‘voice of business’ as the latest step in a career going back more than 25 years.

The Sheffield University graduate has worked in multiple service and product-based sectors and at firms of all sizes from start-ups and SMEs to a FTSE100 company.

She was most recently the operations director for specialist recruitment agency 1to1 Group based near Winchester.

Before that, she had senior roles in the horticulture industry as Head of Wholesale for Romsey-based Hillier Nurseries and Commercial Manager at Double H Nurseries in New Milton.

Ross McNally, Chief Executive and Executive Chair of Hampshire Chamber, pictured left, said: “We are excited to appoint Sarah to such an important and progressive role within the chamber.

“The importance of reaching out to our membership and ensuring our programme of support meets their current and future business needs is at the heart of the decision to make this investment in our success.

“Sarah’s experience and skills will prove a perfect fit, supporting our well-established team.”

Sarah, who also studied at Syracuse University in upstate New York, said: “I have always enjoyed the roles I have held during my career so far and am immensely proud of the businesses I’ve worked in and led, the fantastic teams and individuals I have had the privilege of working alongside and the many achievements we accomplished.

“I have learnt many lessons in my 25 years. They include how to manage time effectively, demonstrate adaptability and flexibility and maintain a readiness to step beyond my comfort zone.

“My career and business moves have all helped shape the person I am today and I count the courage to embrace new challenges as one of my many strengths.

“I am genuinely looking forward to supporting the chamber in its ongoing development, continued growth and long-term success.”

• www.hampshirechamber.co.uk