Biddeford+Saco Chamber names new executive director
The Biddeford+Saco Chamber of Commerce+Industry announced Monday that Jim LaBelle, who has 30 years of marketing and financial management experience, will take over the post of executive director on Oct. 15.
He was selected from a pool of six finalists and takes over from Craig Pendleton, who resigned in July after eight years leading the chamber.
LaBelle most recently served as the vice president of marketing at Raw Seafoods in Fall River, Mass., where he developed a three-year strategic plan that included the launch of a new line of value-added seafood products.
After vacationing with his family in the Biddeford and Saco area for the past decade, LaBelle decided on a permanent move to Biddeford.
"I am very excited to be named the chamber's next executive director,” LaBelle said. “The region and the business community are vibrant and expanding, and I will work to build on the prior successes of the organization to help the members and the entire Biddeford/Saco region continue to grow and prosper."
LaBelle was selected from six finalists who interviewed for the position. The interview process was conducted by members of the board.
“We were pleased to select Mr. Labelle for this position,” said Scott Gillespie, the chair of the chamber’s search committee. “Beyond Mr. Labelle's proven skills in leadership, management, marketing and sales, I was impressed with his deep love of this area, his contagious energy, and the passion to become a part of and build the communities of Biddeford and Saco."
Biddeford Mayor Alan Casavant, who assisted with the interview process, added: “Having interviewed Mr. LaBelle, I believe that he understands our community and is passionate about making a difference in this position. The Chamber of Commerce is an important asset to Biddeford, and we look forward to collaborating with Jim as their new executive director.”
The Biddeford+Saco Chamber of Commerce+Industry, Inc. is a nonprofit 501c6 trade association organized to advance and promote commercial and industrial prosperity as well as the civic, cultural and educational interests of the communities it serves. Its strategies, programs and services are created specifically to foster growth and prosperity to its approximately 400 members, stakeholders and regional partners.
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