A BUSiNESS group is looking to strengthen its lobbying clout and member services following a review of operations.

Hampshire Chamber of Commerce is to reshuffle some of its staff positions, take on a recruitment drive in the north of the county, mvoe to a new Southampton office, and have a closer alignment with the look and feel of the national chamber network.

The review was led by a member survey asking for feedback on business representation, training, communications and networking opportunities.

Respondents said they would like more chamber training on subjects such as Brexit planning, data protection, corporate governance and cyber security.

And they felt the most useful chamber representation to politicians and policy makers is on issues such as infrastructure development, regional business support, lower business taxes and the ultimate shape of the Brexit deal.

Ross McNally, Hampshire Chamber’s executive chairman, said: “We gained some excellent feedback from members which we have now put into a clear, actionable road map.

“The steps we are taking are designed to strengthening our lobbying influence in what is a very uncertain period for business.

“At the same time, we are enhancing our ability to be responsive to the needs of our members for training, networking and other services.

“It’s all about ensuring we provide tailor-made, beneficial and relevant activities and services to help the Hampshire business community to prosper.”

A reshuffling of the chamber team will see a greater harmonisation of roles and new posts for business development, marketing and membership services managers in Basingstoke.

New member services, informed by the survey feedback, will come in in the autumn.

A logo in the style of the British Chambers of Commerce is also appearing on marketing literature, the chamber website and social media.

Ross added: “By making this change Hampshire Chamber can clearly be seen as part of the wider national network, benefitting from its brand identity both regionally and nationally.”