Naperville chamber expects to find new CEO locally
A familiar face is likely to be named president and CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce this fall.
Cathy Subber, chairwoman-elect of the chamber’s board of directors, said Wednesday there’s been enough local interest from qualified candidates, including interim President and CEO Tami Andrew, to forgo a national search to fill the position left vacant by the firing of John Schmitt earlier this year.
“We’ve received 15 applications or resumes to date and we’re still accepting them through August,” Subber said. “So far we’ve got some great candidates so we have no intention of conducting a national search at this time.”
The chamber board has not finalized the official job description, but plans to by the end of the month, Subber said. Chamber members already have identified the strengths and skills they’re seeking.
“We need a visionary and someone who is a great communicator with proven growth in a professional organization,” Subber said. “This person also will excel at managing and motivating a team and implementing a strategic plan. This person also must be open to embracing new technology and new ways of doing business.”
Officials also want the person to stay in the position at least five to seven years, to have enough time to implement change and policy.
Under the new president’s leadership, Subber said the board expects the chamber to become a leader in education and leadership training for young employees across the city.
“We want the chamber to be known as the place where you can go or send your young employees to grow those important skills,” she said.
Subber said the top five candidates will be selected for interviews by late August with the goal of selecting the next CEO by fall.