The Carter County Chamber of Commerce is looking for a new Executive Director.

David LeVeau, president of the Chamber of Commerce, said the decision comes after Tonya Stevens, the now former director, had an opportunity she couldn’t pass up.

“We hate to lose Tonya,” he said. “She has done a great job.”

The organization’s website began taking job applications last week, and will continue until March 31. Advertisements for the new position are also being held in local papers.

Ideal candidates for the job hold a bachelor’s degree and will have a minimum of three to five years of Chamber, business, or nonprofit management experience. Candidates must be able to work with a board of directors, the public and stakeholders. Also, they must possess leadership and communication skills to supervise operations and staff.

The website details the job duties. These include developing short and long term strategies and programs to serve the interests of membership and the business community, as well as implementing them, overseeing day to day management, managing the Chamber’s finances, serving as a public advocate for the interests of the business community, recruiting and retaining Chamber membership and strengthening programs.

The Chamber of Commerce previously stepped away from events they had worked on in the past in an effort to focus more on businesses. LeVeau said that this transition is going smoothly overall.

“We are anxious to get going on our transition with our programming, events for our membership and help to be better business advocates for our members in the community,” he said.

LeVeau is excited for this new chapter in the Chamber, but noted that things are being halted due to the coronavirus at this time. The office is only open for appointments and staff. Likewise, events related have been postponed to later dates. Interviews for the Executive Director position will also be taking place later on.

In addition to halting events, LeVeau said that the Chamber of Commerce will do everything they can to help small businesses stay afloat during this time through advertisements and getting the word out.

“We are prepared to buckle down and get through this like everybody else, here at the Chamber, and just support our community,” he said.