Denmark Chamber of Commerce announces new chief executive Dr John Gates

The role of chief executive at the Denmark Chamber of Commerce has been filled by John Gates, who is set to take the reins from departing boss Sumer Addy later this month. The announcement follows Ms Addy’s resignation after more than two years in the role to focus on running Tea House Books, which she and her husband bought last year. Dr Gates has more than a decade of experience as an executive officer in the not-for-profit sector and has worked across a range of sectors in the region including regional development, education, human services and wine production. He has also sat on several committees including Australia’s South West, Regional Development Australia Great Southern, Great Southern Tourism Events and the Wine Show of Western Australia. DCC president Chris Langslow said he was delighted that Mr Gates had agreed to take on the position. “The Chamber is a highly representative advocate for its 330 small business members in and around Denmark and has recently entered into a service agreement with the Shire to deliver a high-quality visitor service under the brand name Discover Denmark, becoming the peak local tourism organisation in Denmark. “We are confident that John has the experience, skill set and personal qualities to be able to take on the baton from Sumer and to lead the team in this important next phase of the Chamber’s development.”