JASON SETNYK
The Cornwall and Area Chamber of Commerce has announced a change in leadership following its Annual General Meeting with Eric Tremblay acclaimed as the organization’s new president.
Tremblay, a senior manager at MNP LLP in Cornwall, succeeds outgoing president Cristian Urroz, who completed two years in the role after previously serving on the board. In remarks reflecting on his time with the Chamber, Urroz said the experience revealed a broader scope of work than many business owners might expect.
“There’s just a lot more that goes on behind the scenes, whether that’s advocacy for little things that come up here and there or putting on larger events to create opportunities that may not have otherwise existed,” said Urroz. “The Chamber represents a lot of happenings in town, and it’s really been a blessing to be a part of it for so many years.”
Urroz pointed to the rebuilding of the Home and Leisure Expo as a key accomplishment during his tenure, following disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic. The event, held at the Benson Centre, has returned as one of the Chamber’s flagship initiatives, drawing thousands of attendees and providing direct engagement opportunities for local businesses.
“I’m proud that we’ve been able to set a strong foundation for the Expo once again,” he said, noting the effort to restore momentum after a hiatus. He also encouraged the incoming executive to rely on the collective experience of the board. “Lead with confidence, but also lean into the expertise of the people around you.”
Tremblay, who has been involved with the Chamber since 2021, previously served as treasurer and vice-president. Originally from the Greater Montréal area, he moved to Cornwall in 2009 and has built his career locally in accounting and advisory services.
“I came to Cornwall in 2009, and joined CKDM/MNP in 2015,” said Tremblay. “With the Chamber, I started as treasurer, then moved up to vice-president, and now I’m taking on the president’s role.”
Looking ahead, Tremblay said the Chamber is entering a period of stability after rebuilding its core programming and events.
“We rebuilt all the programs and events that were put on the side during COVID,” he said. “Now we’re in a good position to put together a five-year strategic plan, see where we want to go, establish goals and objectives, and put a plan to get there.”
He emphasized the importance of long-term planning alongside continued support for members. “We want to meet our members’ business needs and help the business community of Cornwall thrive and connect better,” Tremblay said, adding that early steps will include forming committees to guide priorities and direction.
Along with the leadership transition, the Chamber confirmed updates to its board of directors. Martha Rochon of the Eastern Ontario Training Board will serve as vice-president, while Jaclyn Archer of PWL Capital takes on the role of treasurer/secretary. New and returning directors include Kristin Davey of Happy Popcorn Co., Nel-Kevin Junior Dubois of LiFet Media, Grant Edwards of On The Ink Screen Printing, Christie Hollingsworth of St. Joseph’s Continuing Care Centre, Patrick Mulligan of PM Promotions, Gabriel Riviere-Reid of Cogeco, Nicholas Seguin of Nicholas Seguin Creative, and Brock Wilson of Wilson Architectural.
The AGM also marked the departure of board members Amy Malyon and Max Ming, who were thanked for their contributions.
Over the past year, the Chamber has continued to deliver a range of events aimed at supporting local business connections and economic development. These included the Home and Leisure Expo, the annual golf tournament, Small Business Week programming, and the Mayor’s Breakfast Update, along with ongoing Pub Night networking events.
Upcoming initiatives include the Mayor’s Breakfast Update on May 20 featuring Mayor Justin Towndale, and the annual golf tournament on June 5 at Heritage Golf Club in Lancaster.
Tremblay said maintaining and strengthening these events will remain a priority while the organization looks to its long-term future.
“We’re not only going to work short-term to build what we have,” he said. “We want to think about where the Chamber should be in five years and put a plan in place to get there.”
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