New boss at helm of Trail Chamber of Commerce
By Kyra Hoggan
The Trail and District Chamber of Commerce now has a new leader at its helm, after the abrupt and somewhat controversial departure of former executive director Maggie Stayanovich (see http://trailchampion.com/news/update-chamber-president-offers-clarification-22206#.UOSh5uQ0WSo ).
Incoming executive director Norm Casler, 50, was already at his desk this afternoon (Wednesday), ready to hit the ground running.
“The best thing for me (about this position) is just being able to get back to, and give back to, the community I grew up in; to help it thrive and succeed,” he said, adding it would be premature to offer specifics in terms of long-term direction or vision, given it’s just his first day on the job.
In a press release issued this afternoon, chamber president Lisa Gregorini described Casler.
“Norm was raised in Trail and after a number of years out of the region, returned two years ago with his wife Jayme. He brings to the position many years of not-for-profit experience, most notably seven years as executive director of the Maple Ridge Jazz & Blues Festival – which was one of B.C’s premier music fests,” she said.
“His background also includes public relations, community promotions, and event planning through his role with media organizations, specifically Rock 101 and CFOX in the lower mainland. And Norm is an able and willing community volunteer wherever he lives.
“The chamber’s strategic priorities continue to focus on pursing profile building opportunities along with improving and expanding services and support to our members and partners such as the City of Trail and Teck Metals,” Gregorini added.
