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Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce has hired a new leader.

The Board of Directors of the business organization today announced the appointment of Ryan Parsons to succeed Kathleen Harrington. A news release says Parsons is expected to assume the duties of the Chamber President in mid-January.

“I am excited to join the talented Chamber team and for my family to become a part of the Rochester community,” said Parsons “The role of the Chamber is critical at this time and I very much look forward to working with the Chamber’s leadership, staff and volunteers – in helping businesses and the Rochester area community recover from the impact of the pandemic and strengthen our path forward.”

Parsons is the current Vice President of the Bismarck Mandan Chamber Economic Development Corporation in North Dakota. The news release says he has served in that position for 12 years and has a "diverse range of experience, including business advocacy, organizational development, resource and program creation, membership development and communications."

Harrington, who recently lost a close election race to Brooke Carlson for Rochester City Council President, is retiring from the leadership position at the Chamber of Commerce. Parsons is scheduled to officially report for work in Rochester on January 19th.

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