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Following an extensive nationwide search, Philip K. Hutchinson has been hired as President/CEO.  Hutchinson fills the position vacated in early December 2007, by previous Chamber President, Celia Wheeler.

Hutchinson comes to the McMinnville Chamber with extensive Chamber leadership experience, having held the Executive Director position with the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce for 15 years.  He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in growing chamber programs and member services, tourism and economic development, visitor services, and event planning.  Hutchinson also co-founded Leadership Lincoln, a highly successful chamber leadership development program now entering its 16th year.

Phil is a native Oregonian, born in LaGrande and raised in the Portland area.  He is an Oregon State University graduate (“GO BEAVERS”).  Following two years as a US Army Infantry Officer, he returned to OSU for Graduate work moving to Newport in 1975.  Phil’s wife, Susan, is an elementary school teacher and they have three grown children; Eric, Emily, and Mathew and one granddaughter, Nell Emily Hutchinson.

Hutchinson’s selection was the result of a nearly three month recruiting and interview process conducted by a selection committee made up of past Chamber Chairs of the Board.  A nationwide search for applicants netted the group over 30 resumes to consider from across the country and included several from the McMinnville area.  After narrowing the field through progressive interviews, the selection committee recommended Hutchinson to the Chamber Board for their approval.  In a special session, the Board unanimously voted to bring Hutchinson to McMinnville.

Hutchinson’s first day on the job was Monday, March 3rd and the Chamber plans to host a series of events to introduce him to its members and the McMinnville community.  A welcome reception is scheduled for Thursday, March 20th, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., at Nick’s Italian Café.