Monroe Chamber of Commerce continues search for next executive director

The Monroe Chamber of Commerce plans to start the new year off with new leadership, continuing its efforts to find a replacement for executive director Una Wirkebau, who left the position in December.

The chamber is a nonprofit organization governed by a nine-member board of directors. The chamber's day-to-day business operations are managed by two paid staff, including the executive director. In addition to helping foster a vibrant and thriving business community, the Monroe Chamber of Commerce acts as the city's Destination Marketing Organization (DMO), working to develop and promote a robust tourism strategy.

The director has a multifaceted job description, including managing and growing chamber membership, using social media to promote chamber activities, coordinating events like the Monroe Fair Days Parade and Light Up Monroe and serving as a vital link between the Monroe business community and city and county government.-á

The director is responsible for coordinating after-hours networking events, awards ceremonies and monthly chamber luncheons, which take place at the start of each month at the Rock Church. The lunches typically feature food prepared by local caterers and restaurateurs and feature a guest speaker. Last year's lunches included presentations by Monroe Mayor Geoffrey Thomas, Monroe Police Sgt. Brian Johnston, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene and expert swift researcher Larry Schwitters.

The lunches are also used as an opportunity for networking, as chamber members spend the end of each meeting introducing their businesses and promoting any special offers they might have available. The exercise is called the "Five Dollar Holler,GÇ¥ and raises funds to support chamber activities.

The director also manages chamber logistics, including preparing monthly, quarterly and annual reports for the board of directors, updating the chamber's strategic plan and overseeing all chamber expenditures.

The chamber is asking that interested applicants submit a letter of interest and a resume, including work history, to the Monroe Chamber of Commerce at office@monroewachamber.org. For more information about the position, visit http://seattle.craigslist.org/sno/npo/5432678090.html.-á