The Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce will see a big change at the top next year, as CEO Stephen Buckley announced today that he is resigning, effective February 14, 2025.
Buckley was named CEO in November 2022, replacing Ken Riehl, who led the chamber for a decade during a period of strong expansion that culminated in the Greater Cape Ann Chamber's place as one of top 5 chamber in Massachusetts by membership.
Buckley oversaw a period at the Chamber that marked a number of new accomplishments, including launch of the Cape Ann Pride Weekend, the creation of an Arts & Culture membership initiative (important in a region that overindexes on not-for-profit and cultural organizations), establishment of the Sustainability Committee and multiple sustainability programs, the return of Rockport’s Motif #1 Day and Rockport Harvest Fest, implementation of the new Cape Ann Conversations Podcast Series, and the introduction of new MAPME interactive software for digital business.
Karen Ristuben, 2024 Chamber Board President, and incoming Board President Jim Brown will head a transition initiative – working with the staff and the board – to ensure a smooth transition for its members and the Greater Cape Ann community.
“The Chamber has been part of the Cape Ann community for 102 years, and we are on a path to play an even more important role in the next 102 years,” said Ristuben. “We remain committed to responding to the needs of our members and our communities, building on the strength of the Chamber team and the support of an active and engaged board.”
“There is work to do as we continue to evolve the Chamber to address new and emerging imperatives, and we are encouraged by the foundation we have in place and the opportunity to bring new leadership and focus to the Chamber,” said Brown, a resident of Essex and native of Manchester by the Sea. “We thank Steve for all he has accomplished and look forward to continuing to serve our members and all of Greater Cape Ann.”
There have been a number of changes to the Chamber staff over the past two years, including appointment of Sam Bevins as Director of Operations and the addition of Colleen Murdock as Director of Community Relations and Becca Campbell as Director of Member Services. The Chamber has also continued to serve as an advocate for the region’s businesses and a driving force for economic development and an improved quality of life across Greater Cape Ann’s five communities.
