Tourism consultant Frank ­Bourree has received the first Governors’ Award of Distinction from the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce.

Bourree co-founded GT Hiring Solutions and Chemistry Consulting Group and has been a long-time advocate and analyst in the region’s tourism sector. GT and Chemistry are known for their work helping people find work and for providing data on how the tourism sector is performing.

The Times Colonist sponsored the Governors’ award. This new award takes the place of the former Lifetime Achievement Award.

Of Bourree, who is now retired, the Chamber said: “Frank is gracious with his time, serving on numerous boards and spending countless hours offering career guidance to people who seek his advice.”

Awards were presented in 14 categories at the event, which was broadcast Saturday on CHEK.

“Tonight’s winners and finalists have all shown exceptional leadership and innovation throughout one of the most challenging years we have ever experienced,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “These are the businesses that will help to shape our local economy as we bounce forward from the pandemic.”

Winners were chosen by an independent panel of prominent business leaders who served as judges.

John Espley was named the Chamber’s Member of the Year. This award recognizes an individual who has served as a volunteer at the ­Chamber, has taken an active role with the board or committees, ­fosters ­relationships with the ­community and advocates on behalf of business.

The Chamber 2021 business awards:

Community Builder
Accent Inns Inc.

Innovation
Starfish Medical

Outstanding Customer Service
Current Taxi

Sustainable Business Practices
Cascadia Seaweed

New Business
Dumpling Drop

Business Person of the Year
Adam and Daisy Order of the Root Cellar Village Green Grocer

Emerging Business Person of the Year
Brandon Laur, the White-Hatter Personal Protection Systems Inc.

Outstanding Workplace of the Year
Brentwood Bay Resort

Non-Profit of the Year
Our Place Society

Business of the Year (1-10 employees)
Moduurn

Business of the Year (11-39 employees)
Orca Masonry

Business of the Year (40+ employees)
CHEK Media Group

Chamber Member of the Year
John Espley, Connection Skills

Governors’ Award of Distinction
Frank Bourree, Bourree + Associates