Prince William Chamber CEO Debbie Jones announced her retirement effective December 31, 2022. Jones has led the Chamber since her appointment in June 2014.
Jones penned a retirement announcement:
I wanted to share my exciting news with each of you. I have decided to retire on December 31, 2022, after more than a 32-year Chamber career. I consider myself a very lucky person who has enjoyed almost every day of my time with the Chamber; due to the many wonderful people that I have met, the unique opportunities that I have experienced, and the connections that I have made. I wish to retire now to pursue some of my other passions and interests.
The Prince William Chamber is in a good position for this transition. We have a strong financial base, excellent leadership, and an amazing staff.
As you can imagine, this was a difficult decision to make because I still very much enjoy my job, but I know this is the right time. I am passionate and optimistic about the future of the Prince William Chamber and this wonderful community. Thank you for the amazing opportunity and honor to serve as the President & CEO for so many years.
Jones replaced CEO Robert Clapper, hired in 2010 to merge two chambers of commerce — The Region’s Chamber of Commerce on the eastern side of the county, and the Greater Manassas–Prince William County Chamber of Commerce in the west, into what is now the Prince William Chamber of Commerce.
Jones was the CEO of the Greater Manassas chamber, and has called Prince William County home for more than 40 years. In 2014, she opened up about the challenges posed by the merger, and about her life in a growing community.
According to the Chamber Board of Directors Chairman Gayle Whitlock, a search for Jones’ replacement will begin following the Board’s next meeting in April.
Whitlock penned this statement that accompanied Jones’ retirement announcement:
Please join me in congratulating Debbie on 32 years of work with our Chamber of Commerce!
She has led us through the good times and the hard with energy, enthusiasm, optimism, and confidence in our region’s business community.
She has been a connector, cheerleader, and good friend to businesses and organizations both large and small. All while having a new ‘boss” each year!
She leaves the PW Chamber in a great place – with a strong financial base, capable and committed staff, strong leadership on the Board and a membership ready to tackle today’s opportunities and challenges.
We wish Debbie and her husband Lynn many happy and successful years in their next phase – we know she has much still to contribute!
I hope you’ll reach out and thank her for her years of service and commitment in helping to shape the vibrant community we all enjoy today.
