The St Albans District Chamber of Commerce announced key leadership changes to its Board of Directors following the Annual General Meeting held on Thursday 22 May 2025.
The Chamber is pleased to confirm the appointment of Susan Glenholme, Managing Partner of Debenhams Ottaway, as its new Vice President. She takes over from Paul Rosenthal of Amthal Fire & Security.
Susan commented, “As managing partner at Debenhams Ottaway, trusted legal advisers that have been part of St Albans for generations, I’m passionate about creating a supportive and inspiring environment where my team feels valued and empowered. I want to bring that same energy to our local business community. Since I joined the St Albans Chamber of Commerce board in 2023, I’ve seen firsthand how St Albans is a great place to do business, with the Chamber providing a great platform for professionals to connect with the right people. In my new role as Vice President, I’m looking forward to working alongside our President, Cheryl Luzet, and the rest of the board to champion local business, foster meaningful connections, and help local businesses thrive.”
Paul Rosenthal, outgoing Vice President, says “It has been an honour to serve as a Board Director of the St Albans District Chamber of Commerce for the past 16 years. Over that time, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside a dedicated and evolving team and connecting with remarkable people and businesses – many of whom have become dear friends. While stepping away is bittersweet, I do so with pride, knowing this opens the door for fresh ideas and the next generation of leaders to shape the Chamber’s future.”
The Chamber is also pleased to announce the appointment of two new Board Directors: Sarah Oluwole, Chief Operating Officer at Lumin Wealth, and Maria Kelly, Marketing and Communications Director at Mercer and Hole. Sarah is coming on board as the Chamber’s Treasurer, and she succeeds Mark Fordham, who will remain on the Board as a Director.
Additionally, Alastair Woodgate, President from 2018-2021, steps down as Director but will continue to serve as an Ambassador. Alastair reflected, “After 25 thoroughly enjoyable years on the Board, it is absolutely right to make way for the next generation of business leaders. I take this opportunity to thank everyone I have worked with over the years for their companionship, advice and inspiration. As Chamber President it was a privilege to represent the businesspeople of the City and District and the highlight of my business career. The Chamber represents a very special and supportive business community: I shall continue to support the Chamber as an Ambassador and would encourage businesses to join, get involved and reap the rewards of Chamber membership.”
The AGM also marked the departure of Matt Adams (St Albans Times) and Steve Maton (Connexus Cloud) from the Board. We thank them for their valuable contributions.
Paul, Alastair, Matt and Steve will continue to be involved with the Chamber and be Chamber Ambassadors supporting our members and encouraging the growth of our membership.
Chamber President Cheryl Luzet says, “We’re delighted to welcome some of our long-standing board members into their new roles as Chamber Ambassadors. This allows them to engage more directly with our members, supporting their growth and fostering stronger connections. It’s a dynamic time for the Chamber of Commerce — our membership has grown significantly this year, and our Board is enthusiastic about collaborating with our thriving business community in the months ahead.”
The St Albans District Chamber of Commerce remains committed to supporting local businesses, and looks forward to an exciting year ahead with its refreshed leadership team.
