Mainebiz

V O L . X X V I I I N O. I X M AY 2 , 2 0 2 2 12 B U S I N E S S M A I N E B U S I N E S S M A I N E B U S I N E S S N E W S F RO M A RO U N D T H E S TAT E Connors to step down as CEO of state Chamber at year's end B y P e t e r V a n A l l e n Dana Connors, an advocate for Maine's business community for nearly three decades, said he plans to retire at the end of the year. Connors has been president and CEO of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce since 1994. "After nearly 30 years with the Maine State Chamber and a career spanning more than 50 years — all of it right here in Maine — the decision to retire from the Maine State Chamber of Commerce was extremely dif- ficult," Connors said. "It has been a tremendous honor and pleasure to serve Maine and Maine's business community at this level for this long. I feel, however, that the time is right for a leadership change at the Chamber, and I look forward to pursuing new opportuni- ties and spending more time with my wife and family." Connors informed the Chamber's board of his deci- sion on April 15. The board plans to launch a search for Connors' successor soon, the organization said in a news release. Connors has led Maine's largest business associa- tion, overseeing a wide range of advocacy and economic development initiatives, partnerships and efforts on behalf of Maine's business community. He has also led a variety of programs and services for the Chamber's network of more than 5,000 members. He is known statewide for his approachable manner and for being a consensus builder, working with both sides of the aisle. Even in the busy Legislative session, he is quick to respond to a reporter's call or email. "Dana is a great example of a leader who listens, works tirelessly to advance the state's economic future, and has led the Chamber to represent our members' priorities in an effective and collaborative way," said Clif Greim, who chairs the Chamber's board and is president of Frosty Hill Consulting in Auburn. "Dana is seen as a valuable resource for legisla- tors and administrations. His positive impact on this state and our collective interests are so very appreci- ated," Greim added. The Aroostook County native graduated from the University of Maine Orono (and later earned an hon- orary doctorate there). He became city manager in Presque Isle in 1968 and held that position for 16 years. In 1984, he was appointed commissioner of the Maine Department of Transportation by Gov. Joseph Brennan and continued as MDOT Commissioner under Gov. John McKernan. P H O T O / M A I N E S TAT E C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E B R I E F Dana is a great example of a leader who listens, works tirelessly to advance the state's economic future, and has led the Chamber to represent our members' priorities in an effective and collaborative way. — Clif Greim Frosty Hill Consulting Dana Connors

• Cover