He takes over from Patrick McGinley, pictured by Clive Wasson handing over the chain, right.
Mr Watson – Watson Hire – told donegaldaily.com: “It is an honour to be nominated and elected as Chamber President by my colleagues in the Chamber Council.
“Over the last number of years all businesses have had to diversify in order to survive the many challenges we have faced. The Chamber has been there supporting it’s members and we hope this year to become even more relevant to the Letterkenny business community.
“I view this role as a challenging one but also an excellent opportunity to work on behalf of Letterkenny businesses to ensure that we all get a better deal for Letterkenny and the North West and improve the business environment for all.”
He added: “As President of Letterkenny Chamber I will commit to keeping pressure on our TDs and local government to create the best environment for business here in the North West. We will continue to urge the national Government at every opportunity to support the entrepreneurial spirit that is the lifeblood of our economy.
“We will all face more challenges in 2012 and I will commit to working hard during my year of office to deliver practical support for our new and existing members.”
John set up Watson Hire in 2005 and also has an outlet in Donegal Town. Seventeen people are employed.
Chamber Council for 2011/2012 is President – John Watson (Watson Hire); Patrick McGinley,(McGinley Sofas); Jason Black (Voodoo & Ink); Seamus Browne (Browne Printers); Paddy Delap (Clarkes Newsagents); Bernard Dillon (Honorary Member); Hugh Downey (Sharp Design); Gerard Grant (Pramerica);Brian Mc McCormick (Brian McCormick Sports & Leisure)Gerard McCormick (Magees Pharmacy); Eamonn Stevenson (Eamonn Stevenson Financial Services Ltd.); Jim McLaughlin (AIB); John O’Connell, (UHC); David McGeough (McGeough Financial Consultants); Philip Ward (Voodoo & Ink); Clare McNickle (Clare Clothing); Sheila O’Donnell (M&S).