One thing I have learned in my career is that clear communication is how organizations thrive. Sometimes I tend to be a bit of an “over-communicator.” A lot has happened with the Chamber recently. I thought its might be valuable to look back, before we look forward. (Hold on friends, this could get long!)
In 2021 we spent significant time with our 10% initiative. This board led initiative set out to ask our members what our community needed from their Chamber of Commerce. During those conversations, we heard about workforce challenges and housing shortages. We also heard about our communities’ desire for a unified, positive voice representing our business and industry. It was those initial conversations, two years ago, that ultimately led us to the partnership with HEDC.
But the partnership is not all we have done in 2022. We realigned staff and hired a talent coordinator. We have taken a hard look at our policies, procedures and finances. We have gotten to a place where outwardly you will begin to see some changes. The post Covid world is different, and we need to adjust accordingly. This year, you will see our staff take a new approach towards events, committees and communication. As a collective board, we have challenged our staff to find a balance between honoring tradition, and adapting to our current business climate.
As we look forward to 2023, we are very excited to begin our partnership with HEDC. The mission of each organization will remain unchanged. The partnership will provide a streamlined vision with a focus on development and forward progress for our community. As of right now, we are working with a third party search firm to begin the hiring process for the joint leadership position. We have also set the schedule to begin meeting as a joint executive team. There is a lot of work ahead. There are still details to finalize, but I am very excited about what 2023 will bring to the Chamber, the new partnership, and most importantly, the community of Hastings.
Happy New Year – Sheana
