Oakville Chamber of Commerce President John Sawyer was recognized by his peers by being awarded the prestigious James Gordon Carnegie Memorial Award at the annual general meeting of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.
The Carnegie Memorial Award is presented to a member of the Chamber Executives of Ontario (CEO) who has displayed exemplary efforts as a mentor and a leader. It was presented to Sawyer by CEO's Chair Walter Sendzik, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce, at a gathering of more than 60 chambers in Sault Ste. Marie last weekend
"John has been a mentor to many Chamber executives, a resource for the Chamber network in Ontario and a steady hand in the building of one of the strongest business networks in the country," said Sendzik. "Combined with his outstanding work with the Oakville Chamber of Commerce, John exemplifies the attributes of this award, and we are very proud of his achievements."
Sawyer was appointed President of the Oakville Chamber in 2005. Under his leadership the Oakville Chamber has won several awards for its policy and advocacy work, as well as its programs. It has grown to become the fifth largest chamber in Ontario. Sawyer and his team have attracted an extensive list of top decision makers over the years as keynote speakers, including Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Bank of Canada Governor Stephen Poloz, Auditor General Sheila Fraser, federal and provincial cabinet ministers, and many senior business leaders. Sawyer's involvement in the chamber network began as a volunteer nearly 30 years ago.
"It's a tremendous honour to be recognized by my peers," said Sawyer. "They fully understand what it takes to serve members, to engage stakeholders, and to be active in the policy dialogue. It's humbling to win the Carnegie Memorial Award, and I'm grateful for everyone who believes that I live up to the example set by James Carnegie."