ChamberOfCommerce         Supplied by the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce… Sault Ste. Marie – The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors is excited to announce Rory Ring as the organization’s new Executive Director. Ring was unanimously endorsed by the hiring committee and will assume the role on February 16th to facilitate a smooth leadership transition, as previous General Manager Shelley Barich exits her role at the Chamber office after 28 years.

“We knew that this would be the most important decision that we would collectively make as a Board.  After a lengthy process that garnered a number of high-quality candidates from across the Province, the Board is extremely pleased to have found a new team member with the leadership competencies the Chamber requires to efficiently manage operations while fulfilling the goals of the strategic plan,” said Monica Dale, President of the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

“My wife and I are very excited to be a part of the Sault Ste. Marie community. The business community demonstrates a progressive approach to diversity, innovation and respect for its historical roots,” said Ring. “I am a firm believer that the Chamber of Commerce represents a membership that demonstrates its commitment to community prosperity every day.  Through a results based collaborative approach to economic sustainability and entrepreneurship, Sault Ste. Marie will continue to show its leadership as a one of the best places to do business.  Michelle and I look forward to being part of that future.”

Chamber Board executives chose Ring for the top job following an initial prospect pool reduction, a grueling in-person interview process, and then a written challenge, during which Ring impressed the executive committee with cognizant responses and a comprehensive submission.

“Rory was the leader in a pool of interested and qualified candidates,” said Dale, “We were impressed by the passion and vision he has for the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce.  Rory is highly regarded for his exceptional leadership and professionalism within the Chamber network.  His proven effectiveness in advocacy and project management combined with his experience on numerous not-for-profit boards and associations establishes an outstanding set of credentials.  We are confident that Rory will take the Chamber to new levels. He is progressive, innovative and community minded.”

Ring has spent several years in a variety of capacities as a Financial Services Professional and an Entrepreneur. He has developed a thorough knowledge of working with member-driven organizations; most recently he served as the President and CEO of the Sarnia-Lambton Chamber of Commerce.  Ring holds a MBA from Queens University and a BA, Political Sciences, University of Western Ontario.

Ring, with his wife Michelle, will relocate to the Sault Ste. Marie from Sarnia-Lambton.  He and his wife are excited to be a part of this great community and contribute to the growth and development of Chamber members and the community-at-large.

The Chamber plans to hold a meet and greet with Ring next month.