The Devon Chamber of Commerce has strengthened its strategic leadership with the appointment of five new directors to the Plymouth and Exeter Place Boards.
Anna Lake, Margaret Oscar, Sawsan Khuri, Aretha Zachlod, and Mike Blakeley bring with them a wealth of expertise, skills, and experience that will enhance the Chamber’s ability to support businesses and foster collaboration across the region.
The newly-formed Devon Chamber was established in October 2024, following the merger of the Devon & Plymouth Chamber and the Exeter Chamber, with the aim of offering enhanced resources for businesses and increasing access to networks and services for existing members.
This latest move is part of a concerted effort to enhance the diversity of skills and experience within the board, ensuring it reflects the broader membership and better represents businesses across the county.
The new directors are co-opted for the time being and will stand for election by the membership at the next board elections later this year.
Stuart Elford, CEO of the Devon Chamber of Commerce, said: “These appointments mark an exciting step forward for the Chamber and for Devon as a whole.
“By bringing together such a diverse range of expertise, we’re not only ensuring the voices of our members are more effectively represented, but we’re also strengthening our ability to support businesses across the county.
“This is about meaningful change, and we’re committed to making the Chamber a true reflection of our dynamic and thriving business community.”
Meet our new directors
Anna Lake
Anna is an independent listening specialist who helps businesses gather actionable insights from stakeholders. With a background in marketing for Deloitte and BDO, Anna also worked in the civil service in Plymouth and Westminster. A passionate advocate for Plymouth’s potential, she mentors young people through YMCA and enjoys promoting the city as a fantastic place to work and live.
Margaret Oscar
Margaret is a communications and engagement consultant with over 20 years’ experience, helping transform workplaces into purpose-driven and connected environments. Having worked with global brands like Sainsbury’s and John Lewis, as well as local organisations like Babcock International Group, Margaret specialises in aligning business strategy with internal culture to drive success.
Sawsan Khuri
Sawsan (PhD, SHFEA, FRSA) is an educator and entrepreneur dedicated to fostering collaboration and ethical leadership. As the founder of Volt Entrepreneurs Limited, she inspires young people to embrace entrepreneurship. Sawsan’s work spans academia, business, and non-profits, and she is a passionate advocate for science education and inclusive practices.
Aretha Zachlod
Aretha brings over 17 years’ experience in supply chain management in the public and private sectors. As Head of Supply Chain – People & Capability at Babcock International Group, Aretha combines her professional expertise with a deep passion for understanding human behaviour, currently pursuing a degree in psychology.
Mike Blakeley
Mike is a senior leader at Exeter College, driving apprenticeship and employer engagement initiatives. Under his leadership, apprenticeship enrolments have grown significantly, and the college has become a national leader in skills development. As Chairman of the National Green Skills Advisory Panel, Mike is shaping the future of sustainable education and training, while continuing to support his local community through rugby coaching and charitable fundraising.
Meet the whole Devon Chamber of Commerce Board.
These appointments mark the continuation of an exciting new chapter for the Devon Chamber, aligning with its commitment to representing and supporting businesses across the region.
The Chamber’s refreshed board aims to foster innovation, growth, and collaboration, ensuring that the county continues to thrive as a hub for business and opportunity.
