Long search finally results in new executive director for Castlegar Chamber of Commerce
By Kyra Hoggan
It’s been many long months in the making, but the Castlegar and District Chamber of Commerce can now announce a new leader at its helm.
The chamber issued a press release this morning, naming new executive director Tammy Verigin-Burk, who is perhaps best-known for her transformative work at Freedomquest, which she took from comparative obscurity and created a more-than-million-dollar-per-year community service operation.
Chamber acting president Stuart Ady said he’s excited about the range of skills and abilities Verigin-Burk brings to the table.
“Most of all, she’s a real people-person,” he said, adding she has specific skills such as leadership and grant writing that will serve her well in her new role. “She’s had a lot of experience, she’s a hometown girl, and she’s very well-connected in the community.”
He said, even with Verigin-Burk’s many strengths and attributes, the decision wasn’t an easy one – hence the months-long hiring process that begin when outgoing executive director Pam McLeod resigned in July to persue other career opportunities.
“There were 22 applications,” he said. “It was really a hard decision, they all had great skills and qualifications, and it took a lot of methodical decision-making by the hiring committee.”
Verigin-Burk takes the helm next week, aided by McLeod, who continues to work with the chamber in an advisory capacity.
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