New CEO Appointed for Murrieta Chamber of Commerce

The has appointed a new president and CEO, it was announced Friday.

Patrick Ellis, an experienced chamber of commerce professional, has been selected to take on the role, according to a news release.

Ellis began his career in the chamber of commerce industry in 2007 as the president/CEO of the Moorpark Chamber of Commerce in Ventura County, the news release stated.

He recently completed the Western Association of Chamber Executives Academy, a three-year training program promoting a new era of chamber management.

Ellis also served on the W.A.C.E. Conference Committee for 2012 and as the president of the Chambers of Commerce Alliance of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, as well as the president of the Federated Chambers of Commerce of Ventura County, according to the news release.

Kay Harrison, chairwoman and acting interim CEO of the Murrieta Chamber of Commerce board of directors, commented on the newly-appointed president and CEO.

"Mr. Ellis' background, experience, integrity and strong business ethic provide the assurance that he is perfect for this key leadership position in the Murrieta Chamber of Commerce," Harrison said. "We believe that Mr. Ellis will not only meet, but also exceed our expectations.”

Ellis also commented on his new position.

"I am deeply honored and humbled to have the opportunity to serve the Murrieta community in this capacity," Ellis said. "I look forward to teaming with the chamber staff, board of directors, membership and community leaders to pursue excellence for Murrieta.”

Ellis replaces Rex Oliver, in Bainbridge Island, Wash. Oliver had served as the president and CEO of Murrieta Chamber of Commerce for more than 10 years.

Rick Schoenfeld, chairman of the search committee, expressed appreciation to all the search committee members, comprising of board members, for their due diligence in selecting the new CEO.

"The recruiting process was a multi-month project that included the engagement of Steve Snyder of Western Association of Chamber Executive (W.A.C.E). We had an extremely competitive field of candidates, which speaks to the challenge the committee had in selecting the top candidate," Schoenfeld said.

The board of directors looked at this transitional time as an opportunity for organizational growth and change and wants to thank the staff, chamber membership and the City of Murrieta for their continued support during this interim time, the news release stated.

A reception is planned within the next month to allow chamber members and community leaders to become better acquainted with Ellis, the news release stated.

Learn more about the Murrieta Chamber of Commerce at Murrietachamber.com.