News Release: Fort Nelson & District Chamber of Commerce Announces Retirement of Executive Director Bev Vandersteen
February 20, 2026
Fort Nelson & District Chamber of Commerce Announces Retirement of Executive Director Bev Vandersteen
The Fort Nelson & District Chamber of Commerce announces that Executive Director Bev Vandersteen will retire effective August 31, 2026, concluding sixteen years of distinguished leadership and service to the organization and the broader business community.
Since joining the Chamber in June 2010, Bev has been instrumental in guiding the organization through a period of meaningful growth and stability. Her steady leadership strengthened the Chamber's role as a credible advocate and collaborative partner, elevating its reputation as a respected and effective voice for local business at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels. Over her tenure, Bev has cultivated enduring relationships across sectors, advanced key initiatives, and helped position the Chamber as a trusted convenor and champion for economic development in Fort Nelson and the surrounding region.
"It has been a privilege to serve the Fort Nelson business community," said Vandersteen. "I am grateful to the Board, volunteers, partners, and members for their trust and collaboration over the years. I leave with great confidence in the Chamber's continued strength and in the leadership that will carry its work forward."
"On behalf of the Board of Directors, we extend our deep appreciation to Bev for sixteen years of exemplary service," said President Gary Foster. "Her tenure has been marked by professionalism, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to supporting local business. Bev's contributions have left a lasting imprint on the Chamber's direction and on the community it serves. We thank her for her leadership and wish her every happiness in a well-deserved retirement."
Bev will continue in her role in the months ahead to support a thoughtful and seamless transition. Further updates will be shared as succession planning progresses.
Gary Foster
President
Fort Nelson & District Chamber of Commerce
The Fort Nelson & District Chamber of Commerce announces that Executive Director Bev Vandersteen will retire effective August 31, 2026, concluding sixteen years of distinguished leadership and service to the organization and the broader business community.
Since joining the Chamber in June 2010, Bev has been instrumental in guiding the organization through a period of meaningful growth and stability. Her steady leadership strengthened the Chamber's role as a credible advocate and collaborative partner, elevating its reputation as a respected and effective voice for local business at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels. Over her tenure, Bev has cultivated enduring relationships across sectors, advanced key initiatives, and helped position the Chamber as a trusted convenor and champion for economic development in Fort Nelson and the surrounding region.
"It has been a privilege to serve the Fort Nelson business community," said Vandersteen. "I am grateful to the Board, volunteers, partners, and members for their trust and collaboration over the years. I leave with great confidence in the Chamber's continued strength and in the leadership that will carry its work forward."
"On behalf of the Board of Directors, we extend our deep appreciation to Bev for sixteen years of exemplary service," said President Gary Foster. "Her tenure has been marked by professionalism, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to supporting local business. Bev's contributions have left a lasting imprint on the Chamber's direction and on the community it serves. We thank her for her leadership and wish her every happiness in a well-deserved retirement."
Bev will continue in her role in the months ahead to support a thoughtful and seamless transition. Further updates will be shared as succession planning progresses.
Gary Foster
President
Fort Nelson & District Chamber of Commerce
