Delta Chamber of Commerce's board of directors has appointed Ladner Business Association president Richard Wischnewski as the organization’s new executive director.
Wischnewski brings a strong track record of community involvement and organizational leadership, according to a recent press release, including previous experience both with the LBA, where he has served as president since November of 2023, and as executive director of Delta Gymnastics, a position he has held since January of 2022.
His work with these organizations reflects a deep commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering meaningful community engagement, the release states, values that align closely with the chamber’s mission.
“We are thrilled to welcome Richard to the Delta Chamber of Commerce,” board chair Rosanne Horner said in the press release. “His proven leadership in Delta’s business and non-profit sectors, combined with his passion for local economic growth, makes him an ideal fit to lead the chamber forward.”
The release goes on to say Wischnewski is known for his collaborative approach, strategic mindset and dedication to building strong partnerships, and his leadership will support the chamber’s continuing work in advocacy, membership engagement, and promoting a thriving business environment in Delta.
Wischnewski is stepping into the role vacated by Jill McKnight on March 21 after she declared her intention to run as the Liberal Party's candidate for Delta in last month's federal election. McKnight won the race over Conservative candidate Jessy Sahota, receiving 32,802 votes to his 27,314.
McKnight served as executive director of the Dleta Chamber of Commerce for three and a half years, taking on the role in October of 2021. Like Wischnewski, McKnight also came to the job as president of the LBA, a post she'd held since 2017.
Meanwhile, the Ladner Business Association announced last week that vice-president Jason Roberts, general manager of Men In Kilts Metro Vancouver, will serve as the organization's interim president.
Wischnewski will start in his new role next Thursday (May 15), one week to the day before the chamber's open house celebrating 115 years of serving as the voice of business in Delta and Tsawwassen First Nation.
The free family-friendly event on May 22 will feature food, drinks, free popcorn, bubbles and giveaways from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Delta Chamber of Commerce office (6201 60th Ave., Ladner).
Those planning on attending are encouraged to pre-register online at business.deltachamber.ca/ap/Events/Register/zBF3zWligCACR.
