A national search is under way for a new president and chief executive officer of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Next Move Group, a firm that specializes in filling executive-level positions for chambers of commerce and economic development organizations, was hired to assist with the search and serve as a single point of contact for applicants.

The search is expected to conclude in July with the goal to hire a president and CEO by mid-August. More information about applications and the application process is available online at www.thenextmovegroup.com/grandjunction.

The search follows an announcement earlier this year by Diane Schwenke she will retire after 33 years with the chamber.

“Over the last 30 years, the chamber and our members have advocated for our local economy, pro-business policy changes and the importance of a superior quality of life for the people that live and work here,” Schwenke said. “I know the leadership of the board of directors will make a great hiring decision for the next president and CEO. It’s been an honor to serve Grand Junction through my work with the chamber, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for this organization and my community.”

Ivan Geer, chairman of the chamber board and principal and engineering project manager at River City Consultants, said the chamber serves an important role as a catalyst, convener and champion for business. “As an organization, we are in a great position to find a new, passionate leader for the long-term to lead our organization.”

The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1884. With nearly 800 business members with a total of about 40,000 employees, the chamber is the largest between Denver and Salt Lake City.

The president and CEO of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce oversees the range of chamber activities. Key responsibilities include managing staff, strategic planning, membership recruitment and retention and influencing policy policies.