from Oakland’s Chamber staff–big news for local business organizations:
Joseph Haraburda has announced that he will retire as President and CEO of the Oakland Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce in December of 2013. He has served in the role for 17 years. Previously, he volunteered for 8 years as a board member, head of the Economic Development department and served as Vice Chair while employed as a leader in local newspaper publishing.
In looking ahead, Haraburda said, “I am immensely grateful for the dedication of the Chamber staff both past and present who worked with me to launch many new projects and initiatives each focusing on stimulating the Oakland economy. We have accomplished some great things for Oakland’s economy and community. There is no doubt in my mind that the new executive will benefit greatly by their expertise.”
Haraburda provided quiet, steady and consistent leadership to the City of Oakland and helped shepherd many important local initiatives. He has a long record of accomplishment and a legacy of projects big and small that benefitted the entire community. Sample successes:
Remember Them Monument – a monument in Oakland’s uptown dedicated to Humanitarians
Small Business Development Center – Oakland Chamber now serves as home to this essential tool for local growth and small business support
Facilitated the formation of the East Bay Women In Business Roundtable, Non-Profit Roundtable and Oakland Restaurant Association
Regional leadership on Economic Development – hosting regional “Mega-summits” and speaking loudly for regional collaboration at the local and state level
Founder of America’s Children’s Holiday Parade, one of the largest children’s Parades now televised nationally and worldwide
Engaging local organizations and neighborhood business improvement districts as partners on issues important to Public Safety and the economic growth of Oakland
Confidant to the region’s elected officials, appointed commissioners and leaders of businesses of all sizes.
Joe and his wife Cathy plan to approach retirement with enthusiasm and will continue to look for ways to engage where they can make a difference in Oakland and the Bay Area.
Chamber Board Chair Shannon Pedder added, “Joe has positioned the Chamber as a regional leader on economic development and personally advised elected officials and business leaders across the community. In each his many wins for the community, Joe has provided consistent, steady and thoughtful leadership. We are so grateful for his efforts.”
In the weeks and months ahead, the Chamber will take some time to reflect on Joe’s accomplishments and begin a regional and possibly national search for his replacement. Joe will remain as Chamber president through the end of the year.