Eddie Matthews retiring after five years as general manager of Stratford and District Chamber of Commerce

Eddie Matthews is retiring after five years as general manager of the Stratford and District Chamber of Commerce.

Article content

The former radio personality left his media job in 2019 to join the chamber, where he was an integral part of its growth and success. Matthews was lauded by the chamber for his “legacy of leadership, vision and tireless advocacy efforts,” and his time at the helm of the organization “significantly shaped (the) entire region’s business community.”

Article content

“It’s been such an honor to serve the businesses of Stratford and area,” he said. “Using a little of my local awareness to boost our voice as an organization never hurt either. Leading in this role’s been a lot of fun.”

The local chamber tackled unique challenges under Matthews’ leadership. During the pandemic, he reworked how key events were held. The annual business awards gala in 2021, for example, was turned into an outdoor drive-in event that was still fun, interactive and supported local restaurants.

Article content

Matthews also played a hand in expanding membership beyond Stratford and into West Perth and St. Marys, and he regularly represented the chamber to parliamentarians locally and at Queen’s Park as part of his advocacy, promoting the needs of the local business community.

“When I joined the chamber, I knew it would be a chance to stay involved with my community,” Matthews said. “In the past five years, I accomplished this and so much more.”

Before taking over as GM, Matthews received the chamber’s Personal Business Excellence award in 2014.

“His unwavering commitment to fostering collaboration among local businesses, advocating for economic development and promoting a thriving business environment leaves an indelible mark on our community,” the chamber said.

Article content

The chamber’s board of directors will soon start a search for Matthews’ estate. He will work closely with the chamber throughout the summer to ensure a smooth transition and plans to leave his role following the chamber’s golf tournament in June.

“Eddie’s been an integral part of the chamber’s success since I’ve been on the board,” chair Dana Walton said. “Our growth and innovation throughout the pandemic is a testament to his leadership. He’s not only an advocate for the business community but he’s also become the voice — always aware of what’s happening and when, and making key introductions to support our community’s growth.

“We appreciate all that he’s done for our business community and we wish him all the best.”

Plans are underway for a celebration in Matthews’ honor.

“Eddie’s been an incredible fixture in our chamber universe for as long as I’ve been a member and on the board,” vice chair Natalie Moore said. “He’s deeply connected to our community–its people, its businesses.”

Article content