THE WHITSUNDAYS Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) is excited to announce the appointment of two new board members.
Fiona Erquiaga, from Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting, and Mark Powell of PRD Whitsunday Real Estate have both come on board.
“We are always grateful to our members who step up and volunteer their time and expertise in shaping our strategy and being great ambassadors for the Whitsundays business community,” Chamber president Allan Milostic said.
“We sincerely thank our outgoing treasurer Annette Neil and board member Kim Porter – the Chamber is in great shape due to their significant contribution.”
Both new board members bring extensive experience.
After completing her agricultural economics degree, Fiona Erquiaga worked in the sugar industry locally, before moving into finance, in 2002, primarily in agribusiness and commercial relationship banking roles.
Fiona became a finance broker in 2017 and launched Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting, in 2020.
Smooth Sailing Finance assists clients to achieve their financial goals – from first homes to new homes, investment, business and equipment purchases, and self-managed super funds.
It provides competitive, tailored, strategic finance options to help achieve these goals.
Fiona has been an enthusiastic Chamber member since joining.
“I am looking forward to collaborating with the board to continue the valuable work they are doing with support and advocacy for local businesses,” she said.
“Encouraging local businesses to thrive leads to prosperity and greater wellbeing throughout the wider community.”
Mark Powell, meanwhile, is the general manager of PRD Whitsunday.
He brings to the role an extensive multinational career in finance, sales and marketing as a senior executive with JP Morgan Chase, the largest bank in the USA, as well as with the National Rugby League and his own import and wholesale business.
As PRD Whitsunday’s new principal and licensee, he is utilising his varied business skills to drive PRD Whitsunday to become the region’s premier real estate agency with a reputation for delivering premier customer service, face-to-face interactions and excellent communication.
Mark has always believed in strong community participation through organisations such as schools and sporting clubs.
“The Chamber offers a wonderful opportunity to share my global experience in business, particularly helping the region’s businesses through proven marketing and sales strategies,” Mark said.
“The satisfaction gained from offering advice to up-and-coming entrepreneurs is priceless.”
Eligible Chamber members are welcome to nominate to join the board. Contact the Chamber to learn more.
