MHCA was once again proud to sponsor the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce Ministers’ Dinner on June 3, bringing together leaders from government, business, and industry to discuss the issues shaping Manitoba’s future.
Addressing attendees for what will be his final Ministers’ Dinner before retiring in December 2026, Chris Lorenc, MHCA President and CEO, emphasized the critical role that meaningful public–private sector collaboration plays in developing effective public policy and advancing the public interest.
“Genuine collaboration is essential to serve the public’s best interests and therefore our future,” said Lorenc. “That belief is why we support this event, the Manitoba Chambers’ Deputy Ministers’ Dinner, and the Winnipeg Chamber Civic Leaders Dinner. These gatherings matter. They are part of the broader advocacy process that helps turn ideas into reality.”
Lorenc noted that effective advocacy and consultation are vital to transforming ideas into action, creating stronger outcomes for communities, businesses, and the economy. He pointed to initiatives like CentrePort Canada and Manitoba’s broader economic development efforts as examples of what can be achieved when governments, industry, and stakeholders work together toward shared goals.
In reflecting on lessons learned throughout his 35-year career, Lorenc highlighted four principles that have guided his approach to leadership and advocacy: ‘advocacy is a marathon, never a sprint’; ‘you can go faster alone, but further together’; ‘we will at times agree or disagree, but we should never be disagreeable’; and paraphrasing Sir Winston Churchill, ‘never give in…never give in…never, never, never…in nothing great or small…except to convictions of honour, good judgment and public interest.”
His remarks served as both a reflection on decades of service and a reminder that progress is built through collaboration, constructive dialogue, and a shared dedication to Manitoba’s future. Lorenc received a standing ovation at the conclusion of his speech.
