After a focused year of transition and organizational strengthening, the Board of Directors is now
beginning the process of identifying the Chamber’s next leader.
Niagara County, NY — The Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce has announced the launch of a formal search for its next permanent Executive Director, marking an important step forward in the organization’s continued evolution and long-term growth. The position description was made available today on the Chamber’s website and LinkedIn page, as the Board of Directors begins the process of identifying the Chamber’s next leader.
Click here for the Niagara USA Chamber Executive Director job description and submission info
The search follows a year of focused transition and foundational work. In March 2025, following the departure of longtime Executive Director Kory Schuler, then-Board Chair Craig Turner stepped into the role of Interim Executive Director with a clearly defined mission: strengthen the organization’s systems, modernize operations, and position the Chamber for its next chapter. From the outset, Turner’s appointment was designed to be transitional, with an emphasis on building a durable framework for future leadership.
Over the past year, the Chamber has experienced both visible growth and significant behind-the-scenes transformation. Public-facing initiatives have included the launch of monthly AI Roundtables, the continued expansion of the Fall Small Business Expo, and the recent announcement that the Chamber’s longstanding annual gala will transition to a prestigious and more accessible luncheon format beginning in 2026. These changes reflect the Chamber’s commitment to adapting to the evolving needs and schedules of today’s business community while preserving the organization’s tradition and impact.
Behind the scenes, substantial operational improvements have been implemented to strengthen the Chamber’s long-term sustainability. These efforts have included modernizing internal systems, cleaning and organizing membership databases, enhancing digital communications and social media outreach, refining governance practices, and integrating new technology and AI-driven tools to streamline administrative functions. The goal has been to create an organization that is more agile, more efficient, and better equipped to serve members.
“What we have been able to accomplish over the past year has strengthened the Chamber at its core,” said Board Chair Heidi Urban. “Through enhanced governance practices, increased board engagement, and Craig’s work designing more efficient systems and integrating AI to reduce administrative burden, we are creating an environment where our future Executive Director can spend more time in the community and less time behind a laptop. That is critical to the Chamber’s continued impact.”
The Board is seeking a forward-thinking, collaborative leader who can manage multiple priorities while advancing the Chamber’s four pillars: advocacy, networking, education, and economic development. The next Executive Director will be responsible for building on recent momentum, deepening community partnerships, and continuing to elevate the Chamber’s visibility and value throughout Niagara County.
Turner reflected on his year in the interim role with humility and appreciation. “While much of my focus has been on systems and operational foundations, what I am proudest of is the sense of community that has grown around the Chamber,” Turner said. “We have seen events sell out, increased engagement across social media, and a steady stream of new members who are excited to be part of what we’re building. That kind of energy and engagement is essential to the Chamber’s future. I have been honored to serve in this role during this important time, and I look forward to handing it off to the next leader and seeing where they take it.”
The Chamber expects to complete its search and announce its new Executive Director by May 1. Interested applicants are encouraged to review the full job description and application details on the Niagara USA Chamber’s website and LinkedIn page.
For more information, visit www.niagarachamber.org.
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