Sheri Somerville is CEO of Atlantic Chamber of Commerce (ACC), the largest accredited business association in Atlantic Canada representing more than 16,000 businesses through its network of 94 chambers and 30 corporate partners. She is a globally certified communications professional with 24-years of multi-sector business experience, and partners with her members to influence an environment in Atlantic Canada where business succeeds.
A successful entrepreneur, business executive and award-winning PR consultant to some of the nation’s leading companies, Sheri joined ACC in 2017 as its CEO. Since then, she has worked to drive support to the network as business came to a standstill in the grips of COVID-19 in the region; as well as creating a chamber vision to serve the next generation of Atlantic Canadian businesses; cultivating new sources of revenue; spearheading new programming; enhancing governance and operational productivity, levering strategic partnerships; and elevating the Chamber’s corporate reputation and membership as she and her team work to shape and support a strong, resilient chamber and business network for the future.
When we put artificial limitations on opportunity and advancement, society loses. Being inclusive is a choice, but as women, whether its in life or our careers, we also need make a conscious choice to stand up, step up and speak up—to be an active architect of our success. Of course, there will be days of doubt, indecision, and even fear, but that’s normal, that’s comes with leadership. No one has it easy and no one has all the answers, but leaders surround themselves with the right people, keep showing up and persevering toward their goals.