Foster City Chamber CEO Resigns

The CEO and President of the Foster City Chamber of Commerce has resigned to take a similar position in Napa Valley.

Two years ago, Chris Messina moved from Santa Rosa to join the Foster City Chamber as the new president/CEO on September 7, 2010. He replaced former CEO Mae Heagerty-Matos after an extensive search.

is a membership-based non-profit business organization whose mission is to promote local business, educate members, interact with local government and enhance the quality of life in the community. The organization is responsible for one of Foster City's premier events, the annual Arts and Wine Festival. 

Prior to coming to Foster City, Messina worked as the Advocacy Council Manager for the Santa Rosa Chamber of Commerce. He also served as the Executive Director of Santa Rosa Main Street, a non-profit working to revitalize downtown communities.

According to a release by the Napa Chamber of Commerce, Messina replaces Lisa Batto, who left the chamber CEO position in September.

“The board is confident that his proven track record of creating and maintaining professional partnerships, his fundraising and promotional expertise, and his commitment to community involvement are going be a positive contribution to the retention and expansion of the Napa Chamber of Commerce’s membership base and community partners,” the release said.

Messina has six years of experience leading nonprofits. He is a graduate of the Western Association of Chamber Executives and holds a certificate as a Certified Downtown Professional from California State University San Bernadino.