Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Chamber President John Wade Announces Resignation

The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that John Wade, President, has submitted his resignation to the Board of Directors.

Wade, who served on the Chamber’s board of directors prior to his 6 ½ years as president, says he has enjoyed his experience with the Chamber immensely, but realizes that it is time for him to focus on new opportunities.

A specific date for Wade’s departure has not yet been set. He has committed to staying with the Chamber until his replacement has been hired to provide a smooth management transition.

“It has been my pleasure and honor to serve as President of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce. While I have enjoyed my experience at the Chamber immensely, I realize that it is time for me to focus on new opportunities,” says Wade. “I look forward to my continued membership in this great organization and all it has to offer. Finally, I pledge a smooth transition as we seek a new leader to take us to heights yet unknown.”

During his tenure, Wade has overseen an increase in Chamber membership to more than 1,260 area businesses and has also increased retention rates that are consistently in the 90th percentile. He has been instrumental in improving the Chamber's relationships with and access to local government leaders at City, County, School Board and State levels.

“John is considered one of the premier Chamber executives in the country. We have been fortunate to have him as our leader,” says Don Supalla, Chair of the Board. “During his 6-1/2 years as President of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, he’s developed a quality staff, organized an effective Board, initiated a significant number of innovative programs and grown membership to record levels. His expertise and experience will be missed.”

John Wade was elected to the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors in October 1999. After taking on the role of acting President in June 2002, he was selected by the Chamber’s Board of Directors to be the President of the Chamber in November 2002.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

This is sad news for the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce! John has been the face and voice of the Chamber for years. Good luck, John! Your future is bright!