It is with immense regret that the executive team of Redbridge Chamber of Commerce, announce the death of Geoff Hill who died on Friday, 14^th April 2023 aged 73 after a short illness. He is survived by his wife June and their children Adam and Lucy.

After leaving school at eighteen, he pursued further educational qualifications including an Advanced Diploma in Education, Management of Education, Assessment, and the psychology of counselling.  Awarded a Master of Education from the University of East Anglia (UEA) for research into the tensions between insider evaluation of projects in relation to outside evaluation plus many other project management qualifications. He became a Head of Department at Redbridge Comprehensive and then an Assistant Headteacher.

He felt strongly about the link between students and business, devised, wrote and delivered (within a team) numerous business-based activities and events for students and pupils whilst also running his own successful business as a consultant which was established in 1997.  An innovator, he co-devised and co-ran the first all-female management training residential for the civil engineers in British Rail and was a key communicator during the privatization process.  With a particular interest in training and education he become an Advisor for Investors in People for LSC, worked as a consultant at the London School of Management Education and helped with the deliverance of public funds for initiatives.

He was an inspirational force within the Redbridge Chamber of Commerce, a flamboyant and lively character who was helpful, kind, empathetic and enjoyed watching people succeed and achieve their full potential and business aspirations. He was humble in his support of others and recognized as an inspirational mentor and advisor.

A member of the RCC for over thirty-five years and chair for more than twenty years, he utilized his corporate experience with business entrepreneurship to help local businesses through contacts, his own training and mentoring of key individuals and phenomenal leadership.

His contribution and support of the local community is irreplaceable, and he will be sorely missed by everybody who knew him.

Warmest condolences are sent to his wife June and children, Adam and Lucy.

A charitable donation will be sent to Cancer Research on behalf of the RCC.

TRIBUTES

“Geoff was the chair of the chamber for many years, I am grateful that he always showed me support, help, knowledge  and mentorship.  Geoff was friendly, jovial, vibrant, accessible and committed to helping the chamber, community and those around him. Farewell my friend.” — Michael Pritchett – Chair of the Redbridge Chamber of Commerce.

“I’m greatly saddened to hear this news. Geoff and I were only in contact last month to try and arrange a catch-up. His humour, experience and knowledge will be sorely missed. May his soul rest in peace.” — Leonore Lord-Patterson

“Geoff made business seem easy. He was welcoming and generous with his time and I will fondly remember him for the time and patience he had for me. In the short time I knew him, he made a difference to my network and to businesses in Redbridge.” — Cyril Bekoe – Manager of iLford BID.

“Geoff was a pillar of the Redbridge Chambers for many years and was of great stator to many businesses.

I remember his flamboyant nature at the network meetings which always use to galvanize everyone, bringing together a common business purpose.

Personally, Geoff always used to commend me, and that I will miss.

May he rest in peace and his work and dedication be remembered.” — Matthew Bell – BELL ICT.

“That is really sad news! I have not heard from him for a while. He was a great advocate for the Chamber.” — Darren.  

“There are no goodbyes. Wherever you’ll be, you’ll be in my heart. Rest in Peace.” — Jayabalan Gukanesan – IC Training Centre.

“Over the years we were more involved via BBP rather than the Chamber and he sub-let our Romford shop for BBP from Havering College at one point. I think the obituary said it all and I know he always had opportunities for young people at the heart of everything he did. He was also held in high regard by myself as a fellow Saab enthusiast, continuing to drive one of those rare 9-5’s well beyond the GM era.

Please pass on our condolences from all at Havering Chamber and Havering College.” — Paul Mason-Hughes.

“I’m so sorry to hear this news. I really liked Geoff’s sense of humour and loud ties.
He will be missed – condolences to the family.” — Vincent Goode.

“So very sorry to read this sad news. Geoff was a lovely man and a wonderful support to local businesses. Please send my condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.” — Renee Wallen.

“How sad. A very inspirational man. My thoughts go out to the family at this difficult time.” — Simon Lewin.

“I’m really sorry to hear of Geoff’s passing. Over the years we were more involved via BBP rather than the Chamber and he sub-let our Romford shop for BBP from Havering College at one point. I think the obituary said it all and I know he always had opportunities for young people at the heart of everything he did. He was also held in high regard by myself as a fellow Saab enthusiast, continuing to drive one of those rare 9-5’s well beyond the GM era.

Please pass on our condolences from all at Havering Chamber and Havering College.” — Paul Mason-Hughes

“Mr Geoff Hill was the rock and corner stone of Redbridge Chamber of Commerce he was the main go to person and mover and shaker when it comes to business,  he also encourage me to strive to be the best nothing less, he was a friend that I can asked question and get the right answers, whenever you needed someone to pitch a decision or an idea he would give is knowledge and expertise, he was a good role model and will be greatly missed.

My condolences to his families he is looking down on us and if in case we make any mistake he will definitely correct us. Rest In Peace Mr.G.H” — Nicola Barrett

“I am much saddened to learn of the Death of Geoff who I worked with for a number of Years during my time as Treasurer of The Chamber. He was always an enthusiastic Member of the Chamber and worked hard for the Redbridge Business Community. He will be greatly missed.” — Mike Needs

“I was very sad to receive your announcement of the recent passing of Geoff Hill.  During his chairmanship of the RCC Geoff advised and helped me out on many occasions, always with enthusiasm and professionalism.   Over the years it became very clear to me that Geoff was born to help people to the best of his ability and in the best way he could. R.I.P. Geoff and my sincere condolences to his family.” — Steve Burton