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Bill Tysseling, CEO of the Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce, announced that he will be retiring at the end of 2016, after serving 10 years as the leader of the Chamber. The Board has established a selection committee, which has begun a national search for Tysseling’s replacement. The new CEO is expected to begin work in early 2017. “Bill has been instrumental in guiding this chamber for the past ten years. His leadership strategies and vision have allowed us to adapt to the changing needs of our membership and a changing economy,” said Chris Maffia, President of the Board. The Chamber is seeking qualified applicants with the talent and enthusiasm to create outstanding growth opportunities for its more than 500 member businesses and organizations. Applicants should at a minimum have a Bachelor's degree and experience reflecting strong leadership, business administration, and communications skills. Completion or current enrollment in the W.A.C.E Academy program, the A.C.C.E. Certified Chamber Executive program, or equivalent business association education or experience is preferred. “Bill has been a tireless advocate for the betterment of our community, businesses, and nonprofits,” said Gine Johnson, chair of the Community Affairs Committee. “We are committed to hiring an individual with a deep interest in advocacy, public policy, member services, and communications to continue Bill’s work.” Applicants can learn more HERE. As the CEO of the Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce, Tysseling administers operations of the seventh largest business organization in northern California. The Chamber serves 500+ members and has a $500,000 annual budget. Tysseling previously served as a member of the board of directors of the Chamber between 1990 and 2001, was president of the board in 1999, and chaired the Chamber’s economic development committee for 10 years. During his leadership at the Chamber, Tysseling has realigned the organization to address diverse groups within the Chamber, developed a program of presentations and workshops on business and economics, increased the business community's engagement in local and regional policy making, and developed long-range strategic plans for the Chamber. “It has been an honor and privilege to serve our members and community for so many years. The Chamber is well positioned to continue to serve its members and the community of Santa Cruz County,” stated Tysseling. “I will be able to truly enjoy my retirement.” Previously, Tysseling was the director of continuing and extended education at Iowa State University, served as executive director of a nonprofit economic development corporation in Santa Cruz, was director of the business and management programs at University of California Santa Cruz Extension in Silicon Valley, practiced and taught law for 17 years, and served as a magistrate in Iowa. Born in Ames, Iowa, Tysseling received a B.A. in economics from DePauw University and a law degree from the University of Iowa. About the Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce The Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce is a local, 501(c)(6) not for profit member organization dedicated to promoting economic vitality and prosperity in Santa Cruz County, to ensure a high quality of life, fairness and efficiency in community decision making, and efficient and sustainable business practices. The Chamber has been working to promote economic vitality and prosperity in Santa Cruz since 1889. The Chamber represents more than 15,000 employees at organizations throughout the County of Santa Cruz, including organizations that have been members for more than 100 years as well as some the most progressive, innovative, successful entrepreneurs in Santa Cruz County. The Chamber of Commerce provides marketing, networking, and educational opportunities to help large and small businesses in Santa Cruz County generate customers and revenue. For more information, please visit santacruzchamber.org. All enquires about the position should be directed to Chamber President, Chris Maffia. Chris Maffia VP/Relationship Manager Santa Cruz County Bank maffiacl@sccountybank.com O: 831-457-5003 ext 2123