IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce has named Carrie Athay as its next Chief Executive Officer. Athay will step into the role effective October 1, 2026.
Athay, who currently serves as Executive Director of the Idaho Falls Symphony, was selected from a pool of more than 80 applicants.
“From the beginning, we were looking for a leader who could bring people together, build strong relationships, and help move the Chamber forward,” said Brenden Craft, Chair of the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber Board. “Carrie stood out throughout the process. She knows this community, she has a proven record of leadership, and we believe she is the right person to lead the Chamber into its next chapter.”
The GIFCC touted the extensive nonprofit leadership experience Athay brings to the role. During her tenure with the Idaho Falls Symphony, she expanded business partnerships, strengthened fundraising, and oversaw key strategic and financial initiatives.
Before taking the helm of the Symphony, Athay held leadership roles at the Museum of Idaho, served as President-Elect of the Rotary Club of Idaho Falls, and was named Grand Marshal of the 2024 Greater Idaho Falls Independence Day Parade.
In a statement, Athay said she is incredibly honored and excited to step into the role and help lead the Chamber into its next chapter.
“At its heart, the Chamber has always been about connection-bringing people, businesses, and ideas together to create opportunity and strengthen our economy,” said Athay. “I see tremendous potential to build on that foundation by creating new partnerships, strengthening the connections between business and community, and ensuring the Chamber is a powerful voice and resource for our region. I look forward to working alongside our exceptional Board, our members, and our partners throughout the community to build bridges, open doors, and create opportunities for businesses and our region to grow and thrive.”
Athay’s appointment comes on the heels of former CEO Paul Baker’s departure in early July. Baker resigned amid online speculation regarding his involvement with the Portneuf Valley Soccer Club, whose former president is currently under investigation by the Bannock County Prosecutor’s Office following an internal forensic audit that uncovered potential financial irregularities.
Former Chamber CEO Steve Hunter has served as interim leader during the transition.
RELATED: Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce CEO Paul Baker resigns
In her new role, Athay will oversee staff operations, work closely with the Chamber’s Board, spearhead efforts to support the regional business community, and help shape the Chamber’s future.
