New Executive Director confident in dealing with politics that sometimes plagues Fort St. John Chamber of Commerce

FORT ST. JOHN -- The Fort St. John & District Chamber of Commerce has announced the appointment of Tiffany Hetenyi as its new Executive Director.

Starting in the role on March 11^th, 2024, Hetenyi brings eight years of experience serving the community prior to joining the chamber.

She worked for the City of Dawson Creek as it’s Tourism Coordinator, and has also worked with the city across its recreation department at the Kenn Borek Aquatic Centre.

“I think the work experience that influenced my decision to pursue the Executive Director role would have been as the Sport and Event Coordinator with the City of Dawson Creek during the pandemic,” said Hetenyi.

During that time, she sat as a northern representative for the B.C. health advisory committee dedicated to solving how business and recreation centres could function during periods of lockdown.

“It was not ideal circumstances and always controversial outcomes that made life difficult for everyone, but it gave me an avenue to question and clarify provincially directions,” said Hetenyi.

She’s also a volunteered on a number of regional boards including the Tumbler Ridge Museum and Towerlake Community Hall.

Her first course of action is the coordination of the Creating Energy Northern Resources Conference,  and within the first few months, aims to  better support small and medium sized businesses with the Fort St. John Shop Local program grant.

Members have spoken of the politics that have at times plagued the chamber.

Hetenyi says, she's aware it will be a factor, but given her municipal background and having served on boards, it is not a concern, and it’s more about “knowing when to jump through hoops.”

A number of current and former members along with some staff, who have worked at the chamber, have expressed concerns to CJDC TV News about the internal politics that effect the organization.

They did not want to use their names for fear of retribution.

“Her deep understanding of the needs of our region and her proven track record of leadership make her the ideal candidate to lead our organization into the future,” said District Chamber President Mitchel Chilcott.