Suffolk Chamber’s first international trade Apprentice lands key permanent role

The Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, Suffolk’s leading business organisation, has confirmed that Rachel Cornes, its first-ever international business & events Apprentice, has accepted a new permanent role in the organisation.

One of Suffolk Chamber’s four strategic aims is to improve the county’s skills base. Having completed her Apprenticeship with Suffolk Chamber, Rachel becomes its Events Marketing and Training Coordinator.

Rachel joined Suffolk Chamber last year with a brief to help expand the Chamber’s use of events and exhibitions to reach potential and current exporters with its advice services across the county.

As part of her initial full-time role, Rachel successfully studied for a Level 3 Diploma in Business Administration at West Suffolk College by putting aside specific hours each week for coursework.

This new role will see Rachel develop her skills in event marketing, where she has shown much talent, as well as providing support for the management of the website and our promotions via social media, and providing general support to the events team. She will also continue to support the Suffolk Chamber International programme and deliver the International training and events.

Amanda Ankin, head of chamber services at Suffolk Chamber, praised Rachel’s “adaptability, enthusiasm and willingness to learn. She has learnt and contributed so much over the last 13 months or so, displaying a wisdom beyond her years.

“Suffolk Chamber is committed to helping young people bridge the gap between education and work and in Rachel’s case we can say it is mission accomplished!”

Rachel added “I am thoroughly enjoying my time at Suffolk Chamber. It provides a really fast-paced working environment where I have been able to take on new responsibilities. It is an organisation with an amazingly positive influence in backing the county’s business community. I’ve loved my time here so far and am looking forward to my new marketing-based role.”

Pictured: Rachel Cornes and some of the Suffolk Chamber team