Maple Valley-Black Diamond Chamber Hires New Executive Director

The Maple Valley-Black Diamond Chamber announced today the hiring of their new Executive Director, Janelle Stallings, filling an open position since the departure of previous CEO Heidi Hanscom.

Stallings grew up in the Midwest and after high school, began her career in the U.S. Army, serving three years at Fort Bragg, NC where she worked as a Personnel Administration Center for the 7th Transportation Battalion, 2nd Brigade COSCOM. She was responsible for evaluation reports for over 1,000 personnel support battalion. After her military stint, she attended Campbell University night school where she studied business administration where she met her husband, Albert. When he retired from the military after 21 years, they relocated to Washington State in 2002 and then to Maple Valley in 2003. Stallings and her husband raised two children who both attended the Tahoma School District. She worked for a time as an employee at the Tahoma School District before later joining the Chamber in 2022 as an employee.

While working at the Chamber, she’s been able to learn the rhythm and needs of the organization.

“When I was given the opportunity to become an employee of the chamber, I jumped at the chance,” she said. “During this time, I have thoroughly enjoyed meeting our current members and have focused on growing our membership. I humbly accepted the position of Executive Director and will work diligently for all our members.”

Board President Gary Taylor said, “The board of directors wanted to take time to make sure we found the right candidate to lead the Chamber. After searching for a new executive director and watching Janelle in action over the last several months, it became obvious that the right candidate was already here. We’re thrilled to have Janelle take the reins to help grow the Chamber and provide excellent value for new and existing members.”

Representing businesses in Maple Valley, Black Diamond and surrounding communities, the Maple Valley-Black Diamond Chamber of Commerce advocates for and works toward creating a business-friendly environment in which businesses can grow and prosper. In turn, our schools, public services, community organizations and non-profits benefit greatly from the economic vitality and generosity of our local businesses. Interested organizations can learn more by visiting www.maplevalleychamber.org.