Board and President & CEO Elect to Not Renew Contract
The Board of Directors of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce said in a news release Monday morning current President & CEO Mike Evans and the Chamber’s board have mutually agreed not to extend his contract, which was pending for renewal. Evans cited his personal obligations and the demands of the job. He is stepping down immediately.
The Chamber’s board has elevated Katie Wood, executive director of the Downtown Naperville Alliance (DNA), an affiliate of the Chamber, to the role of acting chief executive later this week. The board will conduct a search process for a permanent successor.
“Over the past several months we’ve made remarkable progress in our efforts to be the most relevant and effective regional Chamber in the state,” said Cathy Subber, chairman of the board of directors in the Chamber’s news release. “While this decision brings additional change to the Chamber, I assure our members we will not lose our focus. The Chamber will continue to promote our businesses, help members grow, and advocate for an improved business climate to help support the economy and job creation.”
“My responsibility will be to make sure that everything continues to run smoothly, so that we don’t lose momentum,” said Wood. “We will finish the year strong through the continued involvement of the membership. I have so much respect for the Chamber and what it does to help our region’s businesses, I am happy to pitch-in during the transition.”
In fact, Chairman Subber stated the Chamber Board and staff ushered in a wide array of changes including a new membership drive and membership plans to provide new flexibility and marketing benefits. Additionally, new programs were added including the Young Entrepreneur’s Academy, an after-school program that encourages students to start a business and experience the benefits of entrepreneurialism.
As a result of these changes, membership renewal is exceeding forecasts with an increase in of 11 percent, and a 17 percent increase in new membership investment.
“I want members of Naperville’s business community to know our board of directors continues to be focused on advocating for the needs of the business community at every level of government and that we continue to be focused on helping our members grow their businesses and strengthen the quality of life for our region,” said Subber.
Wood will continue in her role as executive director of the DNA and does not intend to apply for the job of Chamber president & CEO. The board will provide additional details of its search process and timing in the weeks ahead. At this time the board is not accepting applicants for the position.
