Staff
Staff
The Chamber’s staff is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Chamber and the delivery of its services to our members. Information about their responsibilities and backgrounds are below.
Executive Director - Karen Cross
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Advocacy & Policy Specialist – Bill Stewart
Bill’s responsibilities with the Chamber are focused on the many aspects of the advocacy and policy work undertaken by the Chamber. In addition to researching issues, he engages members and works with other Chambers and stakeholders as necessary to di
scuss government policies which affect business in Kingston.
Bill joined the Chamber in 2008, bringing a wealth of experience in the areas of project, relationship, data, IT, advertising and social media management. His proactive and creative approach maximizes results through the implementation of effective campaigns.
Following the completion of his BA from Queen’s University, Bill spent 15 years working as an announcer, commercial producer and creative director at Kingston (CHUM) and Ottawa (Rogers Communications) radio stations.
Bill served as 2013 co-chair of the Ontario Chamber Policy Resolution Caucus, and has had continued engagement with various City of Kingston volunteer committees.
Events Coordinator – Dana Betournay
Since 2008, Dana has coordinated the events calendar for the Chamber to include such programs as workshops, golf tournaments, breakfast seminars, networking events and the Gala. She acts as the staff liaison and administrative lead on the Chamber’s Special Events Committee and its large event (Classic, Gala, Connect) committees. Dana also secures and maintains relationships with event and Chamber sponsors and coordinates volunteers.
Prior to joining the Chamber, Dana was the Branch Manager of Kingston / Brockville / Belleville Adecco Employment Services and Operations Manager at Drake International. Her community involvement has included the Special Olympics and being a billet family for the Kingston Frontenacs.
Finance/Administration Coordinator- Diane Taplin
Diane is responsible for all aspects of member administration, payments and event registrations. She manages the Member to Member discount offerings and assists in the delivery of the member affinity programs. Diane is also responsible for the accounting functions for the Chamber and sits on the Finance Committee and Membership & Marketing Committee as a staff liaison.
Diane brings core competencies to the Chamber including excellent client service, event/workshop coordination, performance improvement, database & records management, relationship building and agenda/minutes preparation.