IF Chamber names new CEO

Robert “Chip” Schwarze has been named the new Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber’s Board of Directors announced Schwarze took over the job Wednesday. He succeeds Michelle Holt, who stepped down after three years to accept a position at Eastern Idaho Technical College. “Chip has extensive experience in leadership and we are excited about the vision that he will bring to the Chamber and our community,” said Chamber Board Chairman Eric Hess. Most recently, Schwarze has worked as a district director for the Boy Scouts of America in Olympia, Washington. He also worked as a financial advisor and sales manager in Idaho Falls. He is a BYU-Idaho graduate. He and his wife have five grown children, three of whom live in the Idaho Falls area. “As a former small business owner, I know what business leaders look for in their Chamber,” Schwarze said. “I’m excited to serve existing members and create greater value for them.”