Truckee, Calif. – After conducting an extensive search and interview process, the Truckee Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has announced Jessica Penman as the new President and CEO, effective October 3, 2022. Penman will replace retiring President and CEO Lynn Saunders, after a successful 20 year tenure with the Chamber.
Through her experience at the Yountville Chamber of Commerce as Director of Community Relations, Penman has seen the positive impacts Chambers have on their communities. Her years at the Yountville Chamber have allowed her to oversee numerous projects designed to support and educate the business community; her unique skill set and background will make her an exceptional leader for the Truckee community.
Penman blends her passion for the Chamber mission with a love for the Truckee community. “On my tenth birthday, my parents signed the papers for a three-bedroom condo at the Tahoe Donner ski hill base. For over 25 years, Truckee has been a constant, a place where I feel at home. I have watched the community shift from Lake Tahoe’s sleepy neighbor to a powerhouse tourist destination over the last few decades. With that shift comes growing pains, the type that only a Chamber of Commerce can tackle,” said Penman.
“The in-depth search for a new Chamber CEO resulted in a number of qualified candidates. The board ultimately selected Jessica because of her passion for, and knowledge of, Chambers of Commerce, her experience implementing innovative programs to support business communities, and her pure energy and excitement to serve the Truckee region. We couldn’t be more proud to welcome Jessica,” said Emily Vitas, Chair of the Board.
A smooth transition from the Chamber’s current President and CEO, Lynn Saunders, has been arranged, allowing Penman the benefit of shadowing Saunders prior to her departure. Penman will begin with a round of community introductions to gain insight that will be valuable in implementing a new strategic direction for the Chamber, one that focuses on business advocacy, community outreach and education, and economic development.
“We thank Lynn for all that she has done for the Chamber in the past 20 years. We are confident that Jessica will build on that success and help the Chamber grow to be a more relevant, essential organization for Truckee now and in years to come,” continued Vitas.
About the Truckee Chamber of Commerce
The Truckee Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization of over 550 members with the goal of making a positive difference for the community by continually improving the Truckee business climate and strengthening the economic development opportunities, while maintaining Truckee’s community character and sense of place. Learn more at truckee.com.