The boss of the Prince George Chamber of Commerce has unexpectedly stepped down.
CEO Jennifer Brandle-McCall said the decision was difficult but also necessary for the mother of two young children.
"What it came down to was, over the past three years in that demanding job, it has taken a lot out of me and my family and my life," she said. "I need time to bring some work-life balance back into line for myself. The Chamber has a compelling and inspiring mandate and will take as much of you as you want to give. I gave a lot, just out of sheer passion for the Chamber and for Prince George, and I now need time to recharge."
She stressed that she was "fully committed to Prince George, I'm not leaving, I'm just needing to give myself and my family more of my time."
She was not embarking on a new job in the foreseeable future, she said, and had no specific plans for her next career choice.
"[The Chamber] is an organization that has given me the opportunity to influence real change and connect to the pulse of our city," she said. "I'm proud of the successes we've shared over the past three years, working to modernize the face of the Chamber while engaging members more broadly."
She gave the organization three months' notice to help them transition someone new into the position, and pledged to remain a helpful contact.
The Chamber's president Derek Dougherty said her announcement was received by the board "with regret" but understanding."
"Jennifer has worked with the board for the past three years and we are disappointed to see her leave," he added.
Dougherty said an interim CEO - Dorothy Friesen, formerly the executive director of the B.C. Northern Real Estate Board - would also aid the Chamber during the transition to a new staff boss.
