The Canby Area Chamber of Commerce’s widely respected executive director, Kyle Lang, has announced his resignation after nearly four years at the helm of the city’s largest business networking and advocacy organization.
He said he made the decision after “much deliberation and introspection” and discussions with family, making the announcement in his January newsletter to chamber and community members
“It’s been almost four years since I took this seat, and, in many ways, the world looks different than it did when I took this job,” Lang wrote. “I will be sad to no longer fill my role as I did, but I’m not going far. You will still see me around town on occasion doing community work, so stay tuned!”
Lang, a Canby native and graduate of Canby High School, joined the chamber in April 2018 after 12 years in private business and education. Chamber membership and events grew under Lang’s leadership, even despite the onset of Covid-19, which hit about halfway through his tenure.
Lang worked tirelessly during the early months of the pandemic, sharing information about resources available to businesses impacted by the shutdowns and visiting many of them in person.
“The last two years have taught me a lot about resilience, about the power of staying limber and loose and able to adapt in crises, and I wouldn’t have learned those lessons if it wasn’t for all of you, your faith in what we did through the Covid pandemic, and the strength in your belief in me as a local leader,” Lang said.
“Thank you. That lesson has been a gift, for me, for my family, and I won’t easily forget my time here and what we were able to accomplish together.”
Tyler Nizer, president of the 10-member board that governs the chamber, said the organization would be sad to see Lang leave but happy for his new opportunities.
“We wish him the best in his new role,” Nizer told the Current. “On a personal level, I really enjoyed working with Kyle and value the friendship we have developed over the years. Kyle was well respected in the industry and represented the Chamber well through his actions and leadership. He propelled the Canby Area Chamber well beyond expectations.”
Lang’s final day with the chamber will be January 25. The opening for his replacement has already been posted online, and the chamber is actively seeking candidates. For more information, inquire or send an updated resume and cover letter to Audrey Traaen at audrey@canbyareachamber.org.