Chamber of Commerce Daily News: Hoffman Estates Chamber Executive Director Cheri Sisson Retiring

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Hoffman Estates Chamber Executive Director Cheri Sisson Retiring

Cheri Sisson, executive director of the Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has announced that she will be retiring on Friday, Jan. 3, 2014. Sisson is only the second executive director of the Chamber in its 23 year history, assuming the post in May 2008.

In 2008, when many chambers of commerce dissolved due to harsh economic factors, Sisson's first mission was to redefine the Chamber's mission to ensure that every event and outreach opportunity provided value for its members. With a solid background in hospitality management, she brought a sense of urgency to that core initiative and accomplished growth, even exceeding budget expectations. Sisson's mantra to each member business was, "When you hit that wall and start stressing over finding that next customer, call me and we'll find them together."

"Cheri Sisson is a consummate professional," said Chairman of the Chamber Board Keith Evans with Key Financial Insurance Agency. "She is equally at ease with our biggest corporate member as she is with our smallest businesses. Cheri shepherded the Chamber through a very tough economic period, and we are now stronger than ever. She brings enthusiasm for the events and programs of the Chamber.

"Learning for her is a lifelong goal," Evans added. "Every year, she sought out and built on her already impressive professional education resume, bringing new ideas to the board for our consideration. Cheri will be missed."

"We thank Cheri for her service and for the long advance notice, which will allow the Board to work with her through a well-planned transition period that will launch the Chamber's next chapter of strong advocacy for business in Hoffman Estates," he said.

Having spent the past five years rebuilding the Chamber's membership ranks and helping to provide tools for the success of every member, Sisson is now retiring to enjoy life with her two favorite buddies: Gracie and Riley, her cherished corgis. While she may be leaving the Chamber as executive director, she continues to encourage each business – now her friends – to, "Call when they hit the wall!"

Cheri is originally from Sioux City, Iowa, and moved to the Hoffman Estates area in 1996. She attended the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Iowa, and majored in Teaching English as a Foreign Language. She has been in the hospitality business since 1992, and was on the opening team for the Hampton Inn and Suites in Hoffman Estates in 1997. She was later recruited as the business travel manager for the Hilton Garden Inn of Hoffman Estates in 2003.

The Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce and Industry was incorporated in April 1990. Its mission is to effectively promote and advocate for the interests of the Hoffman Estates business community. For more information, visit www.hechamber.com.

Source: HECC website