Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce announces Olivia Seccombe and Ian Mitchell as new board members

The Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce has announced that two new people will be joining the board immediately.

Representing 60,023 businesses and 238,600 employees across the country, the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce acts as the voice of the local business community, advocates on their behalf, championing key issues and influencing decision-makers at both local and national levels.

One appointee is Olivia Seccombe, who has been head of corporate affairs for British Sugar since May 2022, where she is responsible for the company's wider corporate affairs strategy, including external affairs, advocacy, and media relations, as well as internal communications and communications with sugar beet growers.

Before that, she worked for the National Farmers’ Union where she spent five years as Head of External Affairs.

Speaking of the appointment, Olivia said: “I am delighted to be joining such an exciting and dynamic Chamber of Commerce.

“Having been on the board of British Sugar, an iconic Peterborough-based business for the last three years, I have a real interest in helping create the right environment for businesses to thrive in our area.

“I am hoping to bring my knowledge and experience in agri-food supply chains to help further drive growth and productivity in this critical sector.

“With world-class farmers, research and development, and processors in Cambridgeshire, I think this provides a fantastic opportunity to attract investment into the region.”

Having started her career as a political researcher in the Westminster office of Theresa May MP, she has worked in multiple communications roles in the agriculture sector, including at Dairy Crest Group and the Countryside Alliance.

Outside of work, Olivia has been a trustee for a number of charities, including the Farming Community Network since 2017.

The second appointee is Ian Mitchell, who is the chief financial officer at Cambridge Commodities – a leading supplier of nutritional ingredients and innovative health solutions.

With more than 15 years of financial leadership experience, Ian brings a proven track record of driving sustainable growth and operational excellence.

He is a Chartered Accountant and holds a degree in Mathematics from the University of Durham. Before joining Cambridge Commodities, Ian worked in general practice assisting a portfolio of SMEs with tax and accounting needs.

Commenting on his appointment, Ian said: “I am honoured to be appointed as a board member of the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce.

“I look forward to working alongside fellow members to support local businesses, drive sustainable growth, and help shape a thriving economic future for our region.

“Cambridgeshire is a dynamic and diverse area, and I’m excited to contribute my experience and energy to further the Chamber’s important work.”

Ian enjoys an active lifestyle with a passion for golf, running, and cycling.

Speaking on the appointment, Faye Holland, chair of the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce Board, said: “I am delighted to welcome Olivia and Ian to the Board.

“They both bring a different skillset, helping us to ensure we have representation from a range of industry sectors and professions. I am excited to see the impact they both make as part of the Chambers’ future."