Chris de Caires appointed BEF chairman

THE DIRECTORS OF the Barbados Entrepreneurship Foundation have announced the appointment of Chris de Caires as its new chairman, following the retirement of Peter Boos, who previously chaired the Foundation from its inception.  

Chris brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having developed a strong reputation both regionally and internationally as a senior business executive and consultant. He has served on several national organizations including as president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Barbados, chairman of the Barbados Private Sector Association and World Cup Barbados. He is currently the managing director of an international shipping group based in Barbados.  

Commenting on his appointment, de Caires noted: “I am delighted to be appointed chairman of the Barbados Entrepreneurship Foundation and welcome the challenge of assisting in strengthening Barbados as the Entrepreneur’s Island.

“We have tremendous entrepreneurial talent in Barbados and I strongly believe we can create the infrastructure to allow our local talent to blossom and to attract other exciting entrepreneurs from around the world. We need a vibrant entrepreneurial culture to maintain and improve our economy against an increasingly competitive international environment.”

He added: “I would also like to thank Peter Boos on his vision, energy and devotion in nurturing and growing the Foundation from its inception. I am grateful that he is handing over the reins with the BEF in such an exciting phase of its development.”

Since the BEF, a foundation funded entirely through donations, was established five years ago, it has grown from strength to strength.

 Managed mainly by volunteers, it has continued on its mission to unlock and provide support and mentorship to the undiscovered entrepreneurial talent across Barbados.  To date, efforts made by the BEF include paving the way for the establishment of island-wide access to free Wi-Fi and a financing programme for entrepreneurs.

In addition, the BEF has introduced several projects for school students, business mentorships and workshops, aimed at developing business skills and providing support to budding entrepreneurs. (PR)