STATEMENT TO MEMBERS

The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce today announced a planned leadership transition as CEO George Greenwood concludes his tenure with the organization on June 30 to assume the role of Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Home Builders' Association of British Columbia.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, Chamber President Patrick Bobyn thanked George for his leadership and the significant contributions he has made over the past 18 months.

"George joined the Chamber during an important period in our history and brought a renewed focus on strengthening our role as the voice of business in the Central Okanagan," said Bobyn. "Under his leadership, the Chamber sharpened its advocacy efforts, strengthened member engagement, modernized its operations, and reinforced its relevance within our business community. We are grateful for his service and wish him every success in his new role."

To ensure a seamless transition, the Board of Directors has appointed Ester Pike as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, while a formal search is conducted for the Chamber's next permanent CEO.

Ester is no stranger to the Chamber. Most recently, she has been serving as the Chamber's Fractional Chief Operating Officer, helping lead operations and organizational initiatives.

She previously served as the Chamber's Director of Operations from 2022 to 2023, and so brings deep organizational knowledge and continuity to the leadership transition.

Ester offers extensive experience in executive operations, strategic leadership, and stakeholder engagement, with a focus on strengthening organizational effectiveness and community impact.

"Ester's experience, knowledge of the Chamber, and proven leadership make her exceptionally well suited to guide the organization during this transition," said Bobyn. "She has the confidence of the Board and our staff, and we know our members will be well served under her leadership while we conduct a thorough search for our next CEO."

The Board has established a Recruitment Committee and has already begun the process of identifying the Chamber's next Chief Executive Officer.

"Our priority is to build on the momentum the Chamber has established," Bobyn added. "The work we've been doing on behalf of businesses across the Central Okanagan will continue without interruption. Our advocacy, programs, events, and member services remain as strong as ever, and our talented staff team remains focused on delivering value to our members."

The Chamber enters this transition from a position of strength. Over the past year, the organization has fortified its advocacy efforts, enhanced member programming, and continued to grow its reputation as the leading voice for business in the region.

"While we are sorry to see George leave, we are excited for him and confident in the future of the Kelowna Chamber," said Bobyn. "Our Board has a clear plan, an outstanding staff team, and an experienced Interim CEO in place. We look forward to continuing to serve our members and our community while we recruit our next leader."

The Board expects to provide updates on the recruitment process as it progresses.

Patrick Bobyn
President, Board of Directors
Kelowna Chamber of Commerce

 

Ester Pike MSc. Occ. Psy.; GMBPsS

Interim CEO, Kelowna Chamber