The new president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is looking forward to a landmark year – for the region and his own company.

Amrik Bhabra, the managing director of ADECS Ltd, has taken over from Doug Squires, managing director of Squires Engineering and Gear, who has held the role for two years.

Mr Bhabra said he felt privileged to be taking on the mantle of president at a time when Coventry and Warwickshire would be celebrating events such as the Olympics coming to the region.

At the same time, ADECS – an IT services and print and design company – will celebrate its 20th anniversary.

He said: “Doug has done an outstanding job as president of the Chamber and has been a fantastic advocate for the region and for the Chamber.

“I will be my own person in the role – but I will make sure I am always talking up Coventry and Warwickshire and the benefits of being a member of the Chamber.

“There is great uncertainty about the current economic climate but I believe Coventry and Warwickshire has huge advantages over others.

“We all see the benefits – individually and as businesses and organisations – of working together to bring success and that has been reflected in the way the Local Enterprise Partnership has come together and is working.

“The Chamber has played a pivotal role in making that happen.

“We also have a year to look forward to here in the city and the county – the Olympics is coming to the Ricoh Arena and there are other exciting events on the horizon.

“The Rotary Club of Coventry – an example of businesses and individuals coming together for the greater good – is 90 years old and my own company celebrates its 20th anniversary.

“At the same time, a new era is beginning for the Chamber. It has just moved into new offices at Chamber House and continues to help members trade – whether that’s with other firms in Coventry and Warwickshire or across the globe.

“I will do all I can to help encourage that trade and also to make sure businesses begin to take advantage of social media, for the benefit of their company.”