Sarah brings international business experience to Cheshire CLA
Award-winning businesswoman, Sarah Callander Beckett of Combermere Abbey, is the new Chairman of the CLA’s Cheshire Branch.
Mrs Callander Beckett brings a wealth of experience and acumen to the role - one of the most influential positions in the rural Cheshire economy - and already represents the county on the CLA’s national Business and Rural economy committee.
After spending 13 years in New York as International PR Director for Laura Ashley, Sarah returned to the UK to set up her own Public Relations company. She now devotes all her time to the efficient running of the Combermere Estate and its associated businesses including tourism, agriculture, events and hospitality.
Commenting on her election during today’s committee meeting, Mrs Callander Beckett said:
"I am honoured to have been elected as Chairman of the Cheshire Branch and look forward to working with, and for, my Committee and the North West Region of the CLA.
"The challenges to be faced are not insignificant, particularly after the dramatic global events of the past few weeks, and I am confident that as a group we possess a substantial arsenal of experience and knowledge to support our members in the long term. The financial crisis and the ensuing insecurity and turbulence in the world marketplace will have created a sea change in the habits and attitudes of the next generation and perhaps the following one.
"The importance of the CLA as an association which appeals to the wider constituency of the rural economy cannot be underestimated. The CLA has the responsibility of supporting not only the traditional membership but embracing the evolving rural constituency of land owners, businesses and enterprises. This presents the association with both a challenge and an opportunity. It will be challenged to protect and remain loyal to its core members’ rights in a world where free spirit, enterprise and dedication is being eroded. However, the opportunity lies in offering 21st century support which answers the needs and requirements of the next generation of rural land owners and businesses, thereby making the CLA relevant for the future.
"I believe that my wider experience working in a business and marketing environment, but currently as custodian of a landowning enterprise which has had to adapt to survive, will enable me to support the CLA in its achieving this challenge."
