Tony Playter announced today that he will step down as Chief Executive Officer of the Regina & District Chamber of Commerce. The post will be vacated by Playter on November 30, 2024. Having joined as interim CEO in January 2022 and officially taking the reins on July 1, 2022, Tony’s tenure has been marked by significant growth and community impact.
During his leadership, Playter has been a force in enhancing the Chamber’s role in Regina, advocating tirelessly for local businesses, and spearheading initiatives crucial to the city’s economic development. His leadership and commitment to fostering a thriving business environment have driven the Chamber’s progress – and added steadily to the Chamber’s membership base.
Tony, a former member of the 620 CKRM team – a broadcaster himself, succeeded the late John Hopkins, whose legacy continues to influence the Chamber and the city. Playter expressed gratitude for Hopkins’ mentorship, emphasizing the need to maintain strong relationships with all levels of government during an interview with 620 CKRM in January of 2022 – “John has been a friend and a mentor for so many years and John has been an amazing advocate for our community and it’s my pleasure to continue his work while he is away.” Hopkins would pass away close to a month after Playter took the helm of the Chamber – leaving a gaping hole in Regina’s business community. A hole that would prove a challenge to fill.
Kyle Addison, Chair of the RDCC Board of Directors, praised Tony for his transformative work,“Tony has been instrumental in focusing the Chamber of Commerce on core business values that our membership depends on,” said Addison. “He has transformed the organization to being Business First. On behalf of the Board of Directors and the membership at large, we would like to thank Tony for his service.”
Now as the Chamber begins the search for a new CEO, Regina faces what could be a mix of challenges and opportunities with upcoming provincial and federal elections and a challenging construction season impacting key routes and businesses in the Queen City over 2024.
The big question now is – will rise to lead the Chamber through these dynamic times?
For a new CEO of the RDCC – path forward promises to be both exciting and demanding. With Playter leaving the post – Regina will wait for it’s next champion of business.
