05 Mar 2026
There’s a new leadership team setting the agenda for St Albans District Chamber of Commerce.
Susan Glenholme, managing partner of Debenhams Ottaway, has been appointed as the Chamber’s new President. Susan has served as Vice President over the past year and has been a director since 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a strong track record of supporting the local business community.
She said: “I’ve seen firsthand how St Albans and the wider district are great places to do business, with the Chamber providing the perfect platform for professionals to connect with the right people. In my new role as President, I’m looking forward to championing local business and helping our community continue to thrive. I’m also incredibly proud to be the third consecutive female President.”
Joining Susan in leading the Chamber is Emily Waddell, head of marketing and business development at Taylor Walton, who has been named Vice President.
Emily has served as a director since 2023 and has led the Chamber’s Future Leaders Committee and events programme, helping to nurture emerging talent and deliver a vibrant and inclusive calendar of activity for the next generation.
Emily said: “The Chamber is built on connection, collaboration and community. I’m proud to step into the role of Vice President and continue supporting initiatives that bring businesses together, champion our future leaders and create meaningful opportunities for growth. St Albans has an exceptional business community, and I’m excited to help shape its next chapter.”
Their appointments follow the decision by Wagada Digital’s Cheryl Luzet to step down from her role as President and director. During her time with the Chamber, Cheryl played an instrumental role in strengthening the organisation’s voice across the city, expanding opportunities for members, and guiding the business community through a period of significant change and growth.
Cheryl said: “It has been a privilege over the past six years to serve our business community on the board of directors of the St Albans District Chamber of Commerce and more recently as President.
“I have worked alongside dedicated leaders who care deeply about our region’s growth. Together, we have strengthened partnerships, supported local entrepreneurs, and built a chamber that reflects the resilience and ambition of our members. I step aside with confidence, knowing the next President brings fresh energy and vision to continue moving our community forward.”
The Chamber is also welcoming two new directors: Rachel Budge of Barclays and Lucy Ghawss, audit partner at Rayner Essex LLP
Lucy said: “Having lived in St Albans all my life, I’ve seen first-hand how important a strong business community is to the city’s continued success. I work closely with ambitious and growing businesses and understand the challenges and opportunities they face.
“I look forward to working with fellow board members and contributing to the Chamber’s continued success and helping our business community thrive.”
Rachel added: “This is a fantastic opportunity to support and add value to our business community which is something I am very passionate about. I am really excited to be part of such a fantastic team and Chamber.”
Formed in 1907, the St Albans District Chamber of Commerce is a membership-led, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting, representing and promoting businesses across St Albans and the surrounding areas. For details on how to join, visit https://www.stalbans-chamber.co.uk/membership/
