Dear Chamber Members and Costa Mesa Community,
It is an honor and privilege to introduce myself as the new Chief Executive Officer & President of the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce. For nearly 100 years, the Chamber has been a strong resource, voice, and advocate for local businesses and economic development. In this tradition, I am excited and thankful for having an opportunity to fully commit to a renewed era of continuous growth and innovation that will fuel Costa Mesa’s local economy and community progression.
Given my professional record and key experience of over 20 years in the subjects of strategic planning, program development, marketing, public/media relations, high-profile event planning/fundraising, and community/government relations, I hope to make a strong contribution in delivering the business results that will make our community a better and more successful place. Rest assured, I am passionate, dedicated, and tenacious when leading and participating in community-wide initiatives. Together, with our team, we hope to show leadership in the creation of successful, innovative programs that will fuel the expansion of our business client relationships. Rest assured, I am a big supporter of community cultivation and engagement and serving as a true advocate with our city stakeholders. In this spirit, I am very much looking forward to fully assess our current state and help shape the programs that will give us all a brighter future.
I will work hard to be a successful addition to Costa Mesa. In the weeks and months ahead, my focus will be on the following:
- Developing a robust mechanism to retain and grow membership through value-added services
- Identifying new strategic partnerships and strengthen current ones to develop innovative programs that benefit local businesses
- Leading innovative efforts to re-emerge as a champion in the community for supporting the local economy
As we are pushed to a more virtual world, the need for collaboration, human connection, and unity becomes crucial for the survival of many industries, and through referral networks, and many other services, the chamber is an invaluable resource and a conduit for facilitating communication across sectors.
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our businesses and our broader community in significant ways. I applaud the Chamber’s efforts in advocating for businesses during this period of uncertainty and being pro-active in providing businesses with the valuable resources to help our members and friends rebuild and thrive once again. It is critical to put the City of Costa Mesa back on the pathway to jobs and economic wellness.
The success of the Chamber of Commerce is made possible by the support of our esteemed Board of Directors, Leadership Circle Members, City officials, Chamber businesses and citizens who realize that we all share in the responsibility of creating economic success within our community. Thank you for your leadership, your membership and continued support.
Respectfully,
Carla Valenzuela
CEO & President
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
