The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce. Tom Hoffert will take over as CEO starting Jan. 2, the chamber announced Thursday. (Courtesy of Photos By Orion and the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce)
The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce has turned to a former employee, now an executive at a Mexican food manufacturer and distributor, to take its top job.
Tom Hoffert will replace CEO Nick Williams starting Jan. 2, the organization announced Thursday. Hoffert was the chamber’s Director of Public Affairs from 1998 to 2004 before moving to Don Pancho Authentic Mexican Foods, where he’s worked for nearly 15 years.
Hoffert returns to the chamber during a period of flux. Five people resigned in late summer, and news of Williams’ resignation followed in October. Williams cited “family reasons” for stepping down.
Hoffert said in a prepared statement he was ready to take over.
“I am very excited to work with Chamber members, leadership, key stakeholders and regional partners to build on the Chamber’s reputation as the preeminent membership organization for business,” he said. “This is an exciting time, and the Chamber is well-positioned to develop new and exciting opportunities for businesses.”
Hoffert is a Salem native and graduate of Sprague High School and Western Oregon University, according to the chamber.
This story will be updated.
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