SaultMIThe Sault Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that it has found its new executive director. Tony Haller – a lifelong resident of the Sault – will replace Stephanie Kisner, who resigned earlier this year. Haller, 52, will begin his new job Aug. 3.

Haller believes he can offer a lot of help to Sault Ste. Marie’s businesses. His experience and local connections were strong factors in pushing the Chamber’s Board of Directors to offer him the position.

Haller hopes to bring a lot of enthusiasm to his new post. He wants to expand Chamber membership by emphasizing its importance to local businesses. He also said the Chamber’s biggest challenge will be reminding community members to spend their dollars locally.

Haller added that he wants to see all Chamber members succeed. “My availability will be 24/7 for our members and if they had any problems or questions or concerns, I’m going to be there for them,” he said.

He is a graduate of Sault Area High School and a Lake Superior State University alumnus. For many years his family operated a pair of Hallmark stores in the area, although both are now closed. Haller has had stints with the Downtown Business Association and Downtown Development Authority. He was recently named to the City of Sault Ste. Marie’s Parks and Recreation Commission.