An executive director of Business West is stepping down after 21 years.

James Durie will leave his role at the end of the year for “new challenges”.

He has spent more than two decades as chief executive of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce and initiative and executive director of Business West.

The regional organisation brings together chambers of commerce from Gloucestershire, Bristol, Bath and Wiltshire.

It said Mr Durie had played a significant role in leading the business and employer community in the West of England region and influencing positive change.

Mr Durie said: “I have had the privilege to work with so many amazing people in my role in the development of Business West Chambers & Initiative and the important work it does and different roles it has been able to play.

“I now feel ready for a change of emphasis and will be embarking on new and exciting challenges, more details of which I will be sharing in the New Year and coming months.

“As ever and particularly in this current economic environment, Business West has lots to offer companies to ensure they survive and thrive, and I wish them every success as they continue on their mission to do this.”

Phil Smith, managing director of Business West, thanked Mr Durie for his commitment and “invaluable contribution” to the organisation and said he will be much missed.

He added: “He has brought knowledge, skills, and energy to his role, demonstrating great passion for Bristol and the West of England. 

“Over the last two decades, he has enabled business to be well represented, playing an active role in shaping, and influencing positive change for the benefit of all our communities. 

“In particular, he has provided unwavering support and leadership to the members and the board of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce and Initiative together with our various partnership organisations.”

Before he leaves, Mr Durie will be assisting Emma Carter in her newly created role as director of membership.

It will see her integrate all Business West’s existing membership levels and teams into a regionally cohesive offer that works across the whole of the region.