THE president of Poole Chamber of Commerce has resigned to take up a new post.

Lucy Cooper has been picked for a full-time job managing the new Dorset Growth Hub.

The chamber’s vice-president, Simon Harrison, will be stepping in as interim president until the end of May.

Lucy Cooper re-launched the Poole chamber in 2012 with support from the Borough of Poole and an executive board.

She said: “My time at the Poole Chamber has been fantastic, I have met some truly inspirational business people and am looking forward to working with the business community of Dorset in my new post. I would like to thank the Poole Chamber Board and members for all their support and I’m confident that the chamber has an important role in shaping the future of Poole.”

Simon Harrison will continue as interim president until a new president is appointed in May.

He has been on the board of Poole Chamber for 18 months and has served as joint vice-president since May last year.

He runs his own marketing and PR consultancy business, Callisto Communications, and he will be supported by James Robinson from accountancy firm Princecroft Willis, who will continue as vice-president.

Mr Harrison said: “Lucy has been the driving force behind, and the face of, Poole Chamber for two years and we are very sorry to see her go.

“She leaves Poole Chamber however in a strong position and we intend to continue her work in making the chamber one of the most influential and supportive organisations in Dorset for the business community. We very much look forward to working with Lucy in her new role.”