OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Thurston County Chamber announced today that President and CEO David Schaffert will conclude his tenure with the organization at the end of the calendar year, following more than 28 years of leadership.
Schaffert has served as President and CEO of the Thurston Chamber since August 1998, providing leadership through significant economic, community, and organizational changes throughout Thurston County and the South Sound.
The Chamber’s Board of Directors met in July for its annual planning session and used the meeting to establish a plan of action for recruiting and selecting the organization’s next President and CEO. The process will begin in the coming months, with the goal of completing the leadership transition by the end of 2026.
“This is an important transition for the Thurston Chamber, and the Board is committed to approaching it thoughtfully and strategically,” said Tessa Bradley, Chair of the Thurston Chamber Board of Directors. “The Chamber could not have asked more of its CEO over the past 28 years. David has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the organization’s mission, along with purposeful innovation, leadership, and longevity. His leadership has helped position the Chamber as an important voice for business and a valued community partner.”
The Chamber enters the transition from a position of organizational strength. The Board has maintained a focus on financial sustainability, and the Chamber has built reserves and assets that provide a strong foundation for continued operations and future growth.
Schaffert said the decision represents an opportunity for the organization to build on the foundation established during his tenure.
“It’s been a privilege to have served in the capacity that I have with the Chamber. Its legacy of 152 years of developing our community is remarkable, and to have been a small part of that history is humbling,” said David Schaffert, President and CEO of the Thurston County Chamber. “It is an organization with a strong mission and a deep commitment to our community and our members. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I believe the Chamber is in a strong position for its next chapter.”
Under Schaffert’s leadership, the Thurston Chamber has expanded its role beyond traditional chamber functions, growing its reach, programs, and community impact while consistently positioning the organization among the leading chambers in Washington state. The Chamber has strengthened its role as a convener, advocate, and partner for business, education, workforce development, and community initiatives throughout the region.
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