A new president has taken the helm at the Marlow Chamber of Trade and Commerce.

Paul Deriaz was named the chamber’s new president at its annual general meeting this month.

Mr Deriaz, who runs commercial property practice Deriaz Slater, was sworn in at a ceremony at Danesfield House Hotel which was attended by Wycombe District Council chairman Tony Green, Marlow town mayor Chris Funnell, the executive committee of the chamber and members.

Mr Deriaz took over from Aimee Smith, explaining that he started his practice 33 years ago in Marlow’s town centre.

Speaking about his predecessor, he said: “Our outgoing president, Aimee Smith, made a very valuable contribution last year with her enthusiastic approach and creative flair, one example being the refresh of our website.”

Since starting his business, he has developed a “broad network” of relationships with tenants, landlords, investors and developers, business owners and associated professionals over the years.

He has also worked with Wycombe District Council and other governing bodies with his background in town and country planning, and has been a member of the chamber of commerce for 25 years, serving 15 years on the executive committee.

Mr Deriaz said he was “pleased” to take up the reins as president for the coming year.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Deriaz outlined his objectives for his year in office. He wants to work with Marlow Town Council, Wycombe District Council and Bucks County Council to continue to address the “business issues” surrounding parking, traffic congestion, Marlow Bridge and the regeneration of Globe Park.

He also wants to strengthen the Marlow Chamber, increasing its membership and services it provides to the business community, and to increase the chamber’s involvement with education and to better prepare school leavers for the world of work by tutoring, mentoring and offering careers advice.

Mr Deriaz added: “I’m keen that my experience, network of contacts and our well established committee and membership will bring real benefits to the business community in the year ahead.”