The Greater Kirkland Chamber of Commerce announced today that Samantha St. John, CEO of the Greater Kirkland Chamber of Commerce and the Kirkland Chamber Foundation, will be stepping down from her position effective March 31, 2023.

St. John has served the Kirkland community with dedication and passion for over a decade, leading the Chamber through numerous accomplishments and triumphs. Her leadership has been instrumental in the Chamber’s success and positive impact on the community. She has been a driving force in promoting and supporting local businesses, and her contributions will be missed.

Board President Cherese Bourgoin expressed her gratitude for St. John’s commitment and leadership during her tenure at the Chamber.

“We are deeply grateful for Samantha’s dedication and guidance during her more than ten years as CEO,” Bourgoin said in a news release. “Her tireless efforts have helped to create a vibrant and sustainable business environment in Kirkland. While we are sad to see her go, we wish her all the best in her new professional challenge.”

St. John has accepted a new position serving as East King County Community and Government Affairs Manager with the Port of Seattle. She believes that now is the right time for a change in leadership, and she is confident that the Chamber will continue to flourish and grow under new guidance. St. John is excited to remain involved with the Kirkland Chamber as a sponsor and to continue supporting the organization’s mission.

To ensure a smooth transition, St. John has prepared an in-depth succession plan for the Board of Directors’ reference. She has expressed her commitment to being a resource during this time and looks forward to working with her successor.

The Kirkland Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting local businesses and supporting the Kirkland community. They provide resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy for their members, working to create a vibrant and sustainable business environment in Kirkland.