Marshfield Bakery managing director Chris Smith has been named as the new chairman of the Institute of Directors’ (IoD) Gloucestershire branch.
Chris, pictured, is the current IoD South West Small Company Director of the year and a former IoD South West Director of the year.
Since he became managing director at family-owned Marshfield Bakery four years ago, sales have risen to nearly £3m. 
Last year, an 80% extension to the firm’s manufacturing site created 15 much-needed rural new jobs with a further 10 to come by the end of 2016.
He has championed apprenticeships through various schemes and supports a nationwide industry initiative to help unemployed young adults into work.
Chris is also chair of Digitech Studio School. Part of the Cabot Learning Foundation, it breaks new ground with an inspiring and innovative model of education for students looking to a career in hi-tech and creative digital industries.
He said: “I am keen to continue the strong links we have established with the University of Gloucestershire Growth Hub, supporting students and young entrepreneurs through our mentoring programme. It is vital that we continue to nurture tomorrow’s talent.
“Given my background, I also want to ensure that we have good representation in the membership from manufacturers in the region, as this is very much a growth area again after a tight period. We need to make sure we are attracting young people into this sector through appropriate apprenticeships and work schemes.”
IoD South West chairman Nick Sturge added: “Chris has been an IoD member for some time now and has always been an active ambassador for the organisation.
“He brings a real depth of knowledge and experience of the challenges and opportunities that exist within the manufacturing sector in the region and what we need to be doing to ensure it remains vibrant and that we are plugging any future skills gaps.
“We are delighted to have made this appointment.”
Chris takes over from Cheltenham-based entrepreneur Barbara Stopher.
