NORWICH – Maureen Carpenter first stepped through the doors of what is now Commerce Chenango nine years ago, when she accepted a job on the Workforce Development Board. Three years later, she slid into an Economic Development position. In 2007, she made another jump, ascending to the top of the organization.

Now, after four years at the helm, the Norwich native is departing from Commerce Chenango to pursue other opportunities.

“It has been a pleasure to work with so many wonderful business leaders and I appreciate the opportunities that were given to me here,” said Carpenter. The chamber executive has accepted a position with the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, and she and her family will be relocating to Kentucky.

“I will miss Chenango County and the wonderful people that I have met and worked with, but the experience has given me the foundation and confidence to move forward and accept the new challenges ahead,” she said.

During her tenure as president and CEO of Commerce Chenango, she has worn a number of other hats as well – including executive director of not one, but three, affiliated organizations: the Chenango County Industrial Development Agency, Development Chenango and the Chenango Foundation.

“Maureen has made an invaluable contribution to Commerce Chenango,” said past Board Chairman Bruce Erath. “She was a perfect fit in our time of need, and she advanced the chamber tremendously.”

One of Carpenter’s first tasks was completing the consolidation of the organizations under the mantle of Commerce Chenango. She also worked hard to improved internal cost controls, and “do more with less.”

“I could not have done any of it without a great staff. It has been a tremendous team and I am proud of the work we have accomplished over the last four years,” she said. “I am also very thankful to a special group of business leaders who have served as mentors and friends.”

Under her leadership, the chamber increased member retention rates and participation; introduced a slew of new programs and benefits; ramped up governmental affairs activities; implemented a strategic plan for economic development and worked to improve communication.