DENHAM SPRINGS, La. — The Livingston Parish Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has unanimously appointed Angela Alessi, owner of Heirloom Journeys LLC, to serve as Interim Chief Executive Officer while the organization conducts a search for its next permanent CEO.
The Board has also retained Crossroads Professional Services, a nationally recognized executive search firm specializing in nonprofit and association leadership, to lead the recruitment process and identify highly qualified candidates to guide the Chamber into its next chapter.
"Our Board has remained focused on ensuring a smooth and thoughtful leadership transition while maintaining the highest level of service to our members," said Board Chairman Ross Kinchen. "We are fortunate to have Angela's leadership during this transition and are confident that Crossroads will help us identify an outstanding CEO who can build upon the strong foundation that has been established in recent years."
Alessi brings extensive leadership experience from Heirloom Journeys LLC and has served on the Livingston Parish Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for the past 4 years. Her familiarity with the Chamber's mission, programs, members, and operations made her the Board's unanimous choice to oversee day-to-day operations during the transition.
“The Chamber is entering a new chapter, and with that comes an incredible opportunity. With a well-established foundation already in place, we’re looking for a leader who can unite our business community, embrace innovation, and inspire confidence in where we’re headed. We believe the future is bright, and we’re committed to finding someone who can help us realize that vision. There could not be a more exciting time to live, work, and volunteer in Livingston Parish.”
The Chamber's leadership transition follows the resignation of former CEO April Wehrs, who served the organization for 15 years. The Board expressed its appreciation for Wehrs' assistance throughout the transition process and thanked her for helping ensure a seamless transfer of leadership responsibilities.
"We sincerely appreciate April's assistance throughout this transition," Kinchen said. "Her willingness to work alongside the Board during this process has helped to position the Chamber for continued success, and we are grateful for her many years of dedicated service to our members and our community."
The Board has established a CEO Search Committee to work closely with Crossroads Professional Services throughout the recruitment process.
"Our goal is not simply to fill a position," Kinchen said. "We are looking for a leader who embraces our mission, values strong relationships, believes in serving our members first, and has the vision to help the Chamber continue growing as one of the leading business organizations in Louisiana."
David Hofstetter, who serves on the CEO Search Committee, said the committee is committed to conducting a thorough and transparent search.
“I am honored that the Board placed its trust in me. The Chamber means a great deal to me and to this community, and I want to make sure we keep the momentum going while we find the right person to lead it long term. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve.”
The Search Committee includes Angela Alessi, David Hofstetter, Regina Scott, Steve McLin, Sybil Cotton, Todd Caruso, and Trey Sanders.
Crossroads Professional Services will begin recruiting candidates immediately. The Board anticipates reviewing applicants this fall, conducting interviews throughout the process, and selecting the Chamber's next Chief Executive Officer later this year.
Candidates interested in the position should contact Shannon Farris at Crossroads at shannon@crossroadcoach.com to be notified when the job post becomes available.
Until that time, Chamber operations will continue without interruption. All scheduled events, networking opportunities, leadership programs, committee meetings, and member services will continue as planned.
"Our volunteers, Board of Directors, staff, and members continue to make this organization stronger every day. We are excited about the future and confident that this process will position our Chamber for continued success for many years to come," said Kinchen
For more information on the Livingston Parish Chamber of Commerce, including a list of events and sponsored programs, visit www.livingstonparishchamber.org.
