Palatine chamber hires new executive director

The Palatine Area Chamber of Commerce has hired a new executive director. Steven Gaus, most recently the president of the Bensenville Chamber of Commerce board of directors, will start with the Palatine chamber on Feb. 9.

According to a news release from the Palatine chamber, Gaus has more than 30 years of experience in business development, sales management, leadership and sales. He served on the Bensenville chamber board since 2009, where he worked on workforce and economic development and spearheaded the development of leadership training that focused on chamber of commerce and community involvement.

"I am excited to work with the chamber businesses and board, and to become a part of the Palatine area business community," he said in the release. "I look forward to meeting, interacting and helping grow all our members."

A long time Northwest suburban resident, Gaus has been involved in civic and community groups, including the Lions, for more than 15 years.

Gaus replaces Mindy Phillips, who left the Palatine chamber in December to become associate director of the Arlington Heights chamber.