NAPA -- The Napa Chamber of Commerce named Lisa Batto the new president and chief executive officer, replacing Kate King, who retired from her 10-year tenure.
Batto is the 44th CEO in the 120-year history of the organization. She has been with the chamber since April 2003 and has been the executive vice president since October 2006.
She is a graduate of the Western Association of Chamber Executive’s Chamber Academy, a three-year professional executive training program. In 2008, Ms. Batto received her Accredited Chamber Executive designation from the association.
“I’m thrilled that the board and staff recognize that I am indeed ready for this natural next step in my professional career,” said Ms. Batto upon being named CEO through a unanimous vote from the board. “With this great team of volunteer leaders and the extraordinary staff that Kate built during her tenure, I know we will be able to continue to meet our members' needs and exceed their expectations.”
“We are very fortunate to have a very qualified candidate already working for the chamber. Our choice was made easier because of Kate King's and the chamber’s investment in training a successor who has the complete confidence and support from the entire board. Lisa has demonstrated strong leadership skills, an understanding of and dedication to the Napa Chamber's goals and objectives. I have great confidence that she will be an excellent chief executive,” stated Chairman of the Board Mike Silvas.
Ms. King, who recently announced her retirement publicly, has moved to Texas to live near her grandchildren.
