The Board of Directors of the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce has hired a new executive director, who will begin the job May 18. The chamber announced its news Tuesday morning, April 21.

Tom Peaco, who has been the executive director of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Maine, since 1997, will be the chamber’s new director, taking the seat vacated last month by Staci Coomer.

 A graduate of the University of Maine, Peaco takes to the chamber more than 25 years of nonprofit management experience.  He is also an active volunteer, having served as a member and past president of the Camden Rotary Club, and vice president and coach with Oceanside Little League. He has also previously served as a Cub Scout leader, and coach for other youth sports.  Tom and his wife, Michelle, live in Rockland with their sons Zach, Josh, and Andrew.  

“Tom brings energy, excitement, new ideas and a new perspective to the chamber,” said chamber president Mike Hall, in a news release. “His first priority is meeting our members and building relationships with area business leaders. He is a great listener and communicator and will work to make sure new ideas are put in place to enhance our members’ benefits. Tom is a knowledgeable and respected local fixture who will hit the ground running, making sure our members’ needs are met well into the future.”

The chamber is hosting a Mix n' Mingle June 18 from 5-7 p.m. at Cellardoor Winery to welcome Tom to the chamber. 

 Formed on August 1, 2011 through the consolidation of the Camden-Rockport-Lincolnville Chamber and the Rockland-Thomaston Area Chamber, the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce is a voice of business in Knox, Waldo, and northern Lincoln counties.

The third largest chamber in the state of Maine (and the largest chamber representing smaller, coastal communities), the PBRCC is also one of the largest membership-driven community organizations in the area. For more information, visit www.penbaychamber.com