Duluth Chamber Starts Search for New CEO
The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking a new leader to guide the organization after a recent executive departure.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in People
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The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce has launched a nationwide search to fill its President and CEO role. This transition follows the departure of former CEO Matt Baumgartner.
Why it matters
The organization is seeking a new executive to ensure the long-term vitality of the area. A permanent leader will help align the Chamber with its core mission, values, and local priorities.
The search process is currently underway to replace the prior permanent CEO, with interim leadership in place to manage operations. The Chamber has retained an external firm to identify candidates from both local and national pools.
The players
Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce
This is a regional business organization that promotes economic growth and represents local commercial interests.
Waverly Partners
This is an executive search firm specialized in recruiting leadership talent for corporations and non-profit organizations.
Jim Roche
He is currently serving as the interim President for the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce.
Matt Baumgartner
He is the former President and CEO of the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce who left his position in 2026.
The details
Waverly Partners has been retained to manage the search process and vet candidates who align with the organization's goals. While the search remains active, Jim Roche is currently serving as the interim President.
Timeline
Matt Baumgartner was arrested for DWI in the summer of 2026.
The Chamber officially announced the search for a new CEO on October 20, 2026.
Market Landscape
The current leadership search follows the 2026 departure of Matt Baumgartner from the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce, marking a significant pivot point for local business representation. By engaging an external partner, the Chamber aims to restore stability and refocus its strategic advocacy in the competitive regional market.
Local business owners and members should expect the new CEO to play a pivotal role in shaping Chamber policy and local economic initiatives. The transition may influence the Chamber's future engagement with community partners and its stance on regional business priorities.
The takeaway
Organizations often leverage professional search firms to ensure a broad candidate pool during leadership transitions. This approach aims to secure a leader who can effectively stabilize operations and advance the organizational mission.
Further reading
For more updates on regional leadership changes, visit the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 99.9 Radio USA.
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