The St. George area Chamber of Commerce announces new president and CEO

St. George Area Chamber of Commerce (SGACC) announced Don Willie as the new President and CEO of the SGACC. Willie replaces Pam Palermo who announced her retirement earlier this year.

The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the selection of Don Willie as the new President and Chief Executive Officer who will begin his duties at the beginning of 2020. Willie has served as the Executive Director of Dixie State University’s Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center and Director of the Zions Bank Business Resource Center. Prior to that, Willie was the Managing Director at the World Trade Center Utah. Willie also owns and operates several small businesses and has acted as a business and political strategist.

“There was a great deal of interest in this position and we interviewed highly qualified candidates from all across the nation. Our Board of Directors is so pleased that in Don Willie we have found a new CEO that brings such vibrant and relevant experience, who is already so integrated in our business community, and has such solid working relationships across the entire state. We are looking forward to great things ahead for our Chamber membership and feel that Don is perfectly poised to continue the standard of excellence set by our departing Director, Pam Palermo,” said Niki Hancock, SGACC Board Chair.

“I could not be more overjoyed by the board’s decision to hire Don Willie as the new President & CEO of the St George Area Chamber. Don has great vision for economic development and entrepreneurship. He is an entrepreneur and has first-hand knowledge of what our businesses need to thrive. I have full confidence that Don will not only continue the trajectory the chamber is on but will surpass any and all expectations,” said, Pam Palermo current President & CEO of the Chamber who announced her retirement earlier this year.

Don Willie has been a valuable collaborator and contributor to the Chamber for years. With strong growth happening in the greater St. George area, the Chamber of Commerce is poised to play a crucial role in strengthening our economic vibrancy. Willie has the experience and knowledge needed to lead the chamber during this critical time.

"We live in a pivotal time and the economic growth happening in the greater St. George area is no coincidence,” said Willie. “The chamber of commerce is in a unique position to both provide support to advocate for the needs of the business community. I look forward to the tremendous opportunities ahead as we ensure that the St. George Area remains a world class destination to live, work and play."

About the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce

stgeorgechamber.com

The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce (SGACC) is one of largest business organizations in Southern Utah and the third largest chamber of commerce in the state of Utah. With over 900 members, the chamber represents the voice of the business community in the greater St. George Area. The SGACC supports member businesses with educational luncheons, trainings and networking opportunities. The chamber also advocates for economic policy that fosters robust and diverse economic and community growth.