A new leader is set to take the helm of the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce.
Beginning June 17, Rory Ring will step into the role of president and CEO of the organization, following the retirement of Gail Hundt, who held the post for 28 years.
No stranger to Southwestern Ontario, Ring has held many leadership roles in the field of business development, including heading up both the Sarnia-Lambton and Sault Ste. Marie Chambers of Commerce.
Ring was president and CEO for the Soo’s chamber for eight years. Prior to that, he led the Sarnia-Lambton Chamber for three years.
The former commercial banker, who holds an MBA from Queen’s University, worked as the manager of business growth services for the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership, and in a business, retention and expansion program in conjunction with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs for Lambton County.
Ring has taken on other roles. He is the current chair of the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Ontario, is a current director of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and past director of the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Canada.
According to a media release from the C-K chamber, Ring is known to be cognizant of the need for diversity and inclusivity, believing issues need to be dealt with holistically to better engage and support underrepresented groups within the business community.
He strives to meet challenges “head-on” to ensure welcoming workplaces for all, while addressing labour shortages to build economic prosperity.
Ring is a strong proponent of building a sustainable community base, encouraging exporting and embracing a global philosophy.
“I am honoured to have been selected as the incoming president and CEO of the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce and I look forward to contributing to the growth and success of the members, local business community and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent,” Ring said in a media release.
Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce board chair B.J. Griffiths said Ring was chosen after a lengthy selection process.
“We welcome Rory to the position, along with the knowledge and experience with chamber membership, business intellect and community relations that he brings to our chamber,” said Griffiths. “We look forward to his leadership and welcoming him to Chatham-Kent.”
