Media Releases

New Executive Director Press Release 

March 6, 2023 

For Immediate Release: 

The executive and board of directors of the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the appointment of Karen Matthews as executive director, effective March 13, 2023. She brings to the chamber vast experience, impressive credentials, an ability to make things happen and a love of Norfolk County.  

“I am excited to join the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce. I am really thrilled to be working with this outstanding board and members, and in partnership with the Simcoe BIA, the other chambers of commerce and boards of trade in Norfolk and beyond as well as Norfolk County to create a roadmap for economic prosperity and success for our community,” said Matthews. “For me, this opportunity is a culmination of many years working with many sectors of our community. I just can’t wait to get started.” 

The Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce functions with two main goals in mind: Promoting the community’s economy and creating an atmosphere that is conducive to strong, thriving businesses. With more than 200 business and individual members, it is the largest organization of its kind in Norfolk and Haldimand. Through its affiliation with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, and various other government bodies, the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce is on the cutting edge of the wider business community, allowing our members access to valuable information and benefits. 

”As president of the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce., I am thrilled that Karen Matthews will be our new executive director. Karen has spent decades working in Norfolk County, building up very large organizations. We are confident that Karen will be able to take the Chamber of Commerce into a new and collaborative direction, by forging new partnerships, which will expand the relevancy and longevity of the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce,” said Catherine Akins.   

For more information, please reach out to: 

Catherine Akins 

President, Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce 

Catlaw62@gmail.com 

519-718-3585 

Karen Matthews 

Executive Director, Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce 

karenmatthewshome@gmail.com 

519-420-0673 

Sue Downs 

Chair Public Relations, Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce 

suedowns3@gmail.com 

226-931-9332 

Since 1888, the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce has been serving the community. The Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce strives to be the recognized voice of business committed to the enhancement of economic prosperity in Simcoe and surrounding districts.  

Working Together to Build and Promote Business Excellence