Kelowna Chamber of Commerce fires longtime top boss

The longtime executive director of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce was fired Tuesday.

Dan Rogers says the news that his services were no longer wanted came as a complete surprise.

“I was informed that they were going in a different direction. I was shocked on Tuesday morning, to be honest, but I don’t want to comment on the circumstances because we continue to have discussions,” he said .

Rogers was named executive director of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce in May 2017.

“It has certainly been a privilege to work at the Chamber and lead the team of exceptional professionals we have, who have overseen our growth and advocacy efforts. I have loved serving the wonderful entrepreneurs who have shaped Kelowna’s business community and the region.”

Rogers led the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce from 2014 to 2017.

In October 2023, he was elected president of the officers of the Canadian Chambers of Commerce.

“I have been proud of what we have been able to do and lead the team through the pandemic and have achieved unprecedented results and successes over the past few years.”

Rogers says he is particularly proud of the fact that, during his tenure as CEO, Kelowna was one of the few chambers of commerce in British Columbia to be accredited through the national accreditation program.

“It is the symbol that shows everyone that we have excellence in the operation of the chamber and one of the reasons why the Kelowna Chamber is viewed so positively across the country and is in such a strong financial position for its future success,” added Rogers.

According to the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce website, Colleen Clark has been named interim CEO. Clark was previously named the chamber’s director of operations.

Previously, she served as CEO of the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce and President of BC Chamber Executives.

Rogers says the city isn’t done with him yet.

“I think I still have a lot to offer and I will look at the opportunities and challenges ahead.” I am passionate about community service and believe that with my collaborative spirit and curiosity, I still have much to offer the business world and I look forward to continuing to do so.”

Castanet reached out to the Kelowna Chamber for comment, but has not yet received a response.