The Regina & District Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce Tony Playter as its new CEO. Playter is a proven leader in the community who has the vision, knowledge, and ability to lead the Chamber forward.

Playter believes that the Chamber has a bright future and he is grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of that future.

“Working at the Regina and District Chamber of Commerce is an honour and privilege,” said Playter, who served as the Chamber’s interim CEO for the past six months. “Historically, the Regina Chamber has helped local businesses grow and prosper. I look forward to the opportunity to continue this proud tradition.”

As CEO, Playter will follow the path of John Hopkins who served in the position for 20 years until his passing on Feb. 2, 2022.

“Our Chamber team understands the importance of working on the strong foundation built by John Hopkins. We will have a new direction and vision for the Chamber and our members, which includes working with our civic partners, to create an atmosphere where our business community thrives and grows,” said Playter. “As well, we believe Regina has vast business opportunities available to both long-time residents and newcomers to the community.”

The Chamber Board of Directors are confident in Playter’s ability to guide the organization going forward.

“The Regina and District Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to have Tony lead us into the future as the next CEO,” said Lori Ireland, chair of the Chamber Board of Directors. “Filling the shoes of John Hopkins and the legacy he built is no easy task but Tony has shown his commitment to the Regina business community and to the Chamber’s stakeholders during his tenure as interim CEO.

“Following an exhaustive search process, we are confident that we have chosen the right person to take the Chamber forward and be a catalyst for bigger and better things.  The future success of Regina and area business is full of promise and we are excited to have Tony strengthen the bonds and be a part of this next phase.”

Playter, most recently a communications consultant with Fraser Strategy Inc., is well-known in Regina for his work with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Saskatchewan Government Insurance, the Regina Public Library, the Regina Bypass, the Regina Airport Authority and the City of Regina.

He has been active in the community serving on the boards of Regina Crime Stoppers, Saskatchewan Red Cross, Regina Thunder Football Club and Reconciliation Regina.

Mayor Sandra Masters is sure that Playter and the Chamber will play an integral role in Regina’s business community.

“I am pleased to welcome Tony Playter as CEO of the Regina Chamber of Commerce,” said Mayor Masters. “Tony brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for both the City of Regina and the business community, which is critical as we move our community forward together. An avid volunteer and professional communicator, Tony’s commitment and energy is a welcomed benefit to our City and I look forward to our continued collaborative partnership.”

Playter’s role at CEO is effective immediately.