The Steinbach Chamber of Commerce has a new Executive Director.

The Board of Directors has announced the hiring of Gwen Reimer. Reimer had been the Program Director for Eastman Immigrant Services (EIS) for the last five years. She takes over for Michelle Bezditny, who recently took on the position of Director of Economic Development for Steinbach.

"Very excited," was Reimer's reaction upon learning the news. "I'm excited to see where and what this new chapter of my new life will look like."

Christine Beaumont, President of Steinbach Chamber of Commerce, says Reimer demonstrated great leadership with EIS. 

"It's a natural fit for her to grow into the Executive Director role with the Chamber of Commerce having been at the helm of EIS, the Chamber of Commerce's largest initiative," says Beaumont. "EIS' employment division connects the local newcomer workforce to the business community in the region."

Beaumont says the Board is confident that the skills and abilities that Reimer brings to the organization will help to lead EIS and the Chamber to continued growth and added value to its business members and newcomers to the community.

Reimer says it has been a pleasure working with EIS. 

As mentioned, EIS is the Chamber's largest initiative. Reimer says having this background knowledge will be beneficial for her as she moves forward with the Chamber. 

"The mission of the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce is to unite and represent Steinbach and area businesses, which will result in economic growth and stability to provide a quality of life for the entire community," she notes. "Newcomers obviously play a very important role in this growth and development of our region."

She says one of her first orders of business will be to work on hiring her replacement with EIS.

Reimer says with her as Executive Director, the Chamber is getting a servant leader. This includes someone who has the ability to listen, is empathetic, a problem solver, has self-awareness, is persuasive, leads by example and has foresight.

"I am committed to people's growth and to building a community spirit," she adds. "Wanting to have an inclusive environment and that enables everyone in the organization to thrive and be themselves."