The Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce announced recently the resignation of its CEO, Peter Candela, after a four-year tenure. 

Having served as CEO of the Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce since 2006, Candela will step down from that position this month.

"Peter has done an excellent job in Morro Bay. I hope he decides to stay in the area and in the Chamber business, because he is a big asset to our industry," said Dave Garth, San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce CEO.

Candela was hired at a time when the Morro Bay Chamber was facing a transitional environment with many challenges.

"Business development has always been my passion," Candela said. "Four and a half years ago, the Morro Bay Chamber was looking for a leader who would foster growth in membership, continue its positive relationship with the City, and grow activities that would encourage visitors. I can look back with confidence and say my staff and I achieved our goals. Now is the time for a new leader to take helm and broaden the framework."

During Candela's tenure, the Morro Bay Chamber built a strong relationship with the Small Business Administration (SBA) by bringing educational programs to local businesses, increased chamber membership from 238 members to over 500, increased its web presence, coordinated 20 new and established events, and continued working with the Morro Bay city staff and City Council to promote both the development of businesses and tourism.

Candela has been active in the Western Association of Chamber Executives, the Morro Bay Promotions Committee, SLOCHEX (an association of SLO County Chamber Executives), the Morro Bay Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) and the Morro Bay Rotary Club, furthering relationships and cooperation among the many business and community organizations. 

"The Chamber Board was saddened to receive Mr. Candela's resignation but supports his decision,' stated Stuart McElhinney, Chamber Board President. 'He has provided excellent service in his role and we wish him the best with his future endeavors."  Announcing his resignation to his board, Peter Candela said, "The CEO of a Chamber is a fulfilling and rewarding