New IF Chamber CEO discusses her vision and building trust after former CEO controversy
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IDAHO FALLS — Three weeks into her new position as the CEO of the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce, Carrie Athay spoke with EastIdahoNews.com about her goals for the organization and how she plans to rebuild members’ trust after the controversial exit of the former CEO.
Athay has a lengthy background in public service and non-profit work, including her time at the Museum of Idaho where she served as the curator and director of curatorial affairs.
“I’ve had a little bit of a meandering road to the chamber,” says Athay. “One of the things that I learned at the museum was about what amazing connections we make as people here in this area.”
The former executive director of the Idaho Falls Symphony, Athay says she has a strong drive to create connection and foster community in our area.
“Not everyone relates to symphonic music, and not everyone relates to that kind of experience,” says Athay. “But I’m really proud that during the time I was there, we were really able to double our revenues, get more butts in seats and provide an experience that was relevant to our community, and I loved that.”
In the interview, Athay discussed her goal of increasing trust among chamber members after the former CEO, Paul Baker, was accused on a local podcast of misappropriating funds.
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“I love transparency, and that was kind of my hallmark in previous jobs that I’ve had, is making sure that we have policies and procedures that are in place so that everyone who’s involved with us can know that they’re involved with an organization that is transparent,” says Athay. “I know that we don’t have perfect relationships with everybody who has been a member of the chamber or associated with the chamber, so there are a lot of conversations that are happening that need to happen, so we can rebuild some of that confidence and that trust.”
Athay also addressed the progress of an internal audit that is taking place at the chamber after Baker’s allegations.
Watch our full interview with Carrie Athay in the player above.
Learn more about the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce here.