Doug Stang to Lead Minnesota Chamber of Commerce
The former legislator and executive will take over as president and CEO on December 1, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in People
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The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce has named Doug Stang as its incoming president and CEO. Stang will officially begin his new role on December 1, 2026, following the retirement of current leader Doug Loon.
Why it matters
The appointment marks a leadership transition for one of the state's most prominent business advocacy groups. Stang brings a background that spans both the public sector and private industry to represent the organization's thousands of members.
The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce represents more than 6,300 businesses across the state. Founded in 1908, the organization underwent an executive search process to select its new leadership.
The players
Doug Stang
He is a former member of the Minnesota House of Representatives who previously worked as an executive at 3M and LegalZoom.
Doug Loon
He is the outgoing president and CEO of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce whose retirement was announced in May 2026.
Minnesota Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1908, this advocacy organization represents the interests of over 6,300 businesses operating within Minnesota.
The details
Stang previously served as the Deputy Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Health and held four terms in the Minnesota House of Representatives. His private sector experience includes serving as the Head of Federal and State Government Affairs at LegalZoom and a fifteen-year tenure as Director of State Government Affairs at 3M.
Timeline
October 28, 2026: Doug Stang was officially named as the next president and CEO.
December 1, 2026: Doug Stang begins his new role.
Market Landscape
This transition continues the long-standing advocacy work of an organization established in 1908. By hiring a leader with experience in both the state legislature and global corporations, the Chamber is positioning itself to bridge gaps between local regulatory policy and private industry growth.
Business owners and members of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce will see a change in leadership starting in December. The move may signal shifts in the organization's lobbying approach and policy initiatives at the state capitol.
The takeaway
The appointment highlights the continued integration of private sector experience into state-level business advocacy roles. Members should monitor future communications for updates on how this leadership change will influence upcoming legislative priorities.
Further reading
For more information on organizational leadership, see Minnesota People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Twin Cities.
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