7-26-2018 2:45pm

Olsen to Retire as Chamber Executive Director at the End of the Year

The Saline Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors regretfully accepted the resignation of Executive Director John Olsen at their meeting on Wednesday, July 18, 2018. John has been at the helm of the Saline Area Chamber for the past three years and has been instrumental in the continued success of the organization.

John came to the Saline Area Chamber of Commerce (SACC) in 2015 after many years as a member of the Saline business community as well as previously serving on the Board of Directors and even serving as President of the Board for SACC. John and his wife Jill owned Spotted Dog Winery and, in that capacity, supported many local events and charities through generous donations of products and services. While at Spotted Dog, John, along with Doreen McGuire of the former Serendipity, created the Saline Downtown Merchants Association (SDMA). That organization, made up of downtown businesses, worked tirelessly to ensure that “something was always happening in Saline.” Many premiere events we currently enjoy were started during that timeframe. The SDMA ultimately rolled into the Saline Main Street organization which carries on that banner today and into the future.

John’s efforts to work one-on-one with business owners, represent the interests of the business community at local meetings, and celebrate what makes the Saline area a great place to live, work, and play have shown his passion for our community. His efforts to create a Women in Business group, expand the Saline Salutes Citizen Awards and Business Enterprise Awards and headed the relaunching of a newly expanded Ambassador Program, have been part of his stewardship to help the Saline Area Chamber of Commerce continue to grow, expand, and influence the business climate in the Saline area.

After spending his early career in the computer industry, John departed as a senior vice president to realize his passion of owning his own business, Spotted Dog Winery. This depth of knowledge in the operations of large and small businesses enriched his ability to help members of the Chamber. His wife, Jill, has also been an active volunteer and supporter of the Saline Area Chamber activities. Their involvement in the Saline community has been greatly appreciated and we wish both John and Jill well in their future endeavors.

John will officially retire in December, 2018. A Selection Committee has been formed to search for a replacement Executive Director. More information will be available in the near future.

Please contact Saline Chamber Human Resources Committee Chair, Alice Rea at 734-253-6217 with any questions.