Leonard Working On First Month As Director, Searching For New 'Plus One'

Robin Leonard officially began her Director duties with Grant County Chamber of Commerce January 1. Leonard replaces Marieta Hauser, who retired at the end of 2025.

"It's been really good so far, but we've been really busy," Leonard said of her new duties.

One of the items to be keeping things hopping at the Chamber is the annual Spring Fling event, planned for April 17-18.

"We are going to be getting the applications out for our vendors for Spring Fling soon," Leonard said. "We have also been working on collecting Chamber dues and getting some other things started for the new year."

Leonard, who has been with the Chamber for the past five years, was Hauser's "plus one" prior to being named director, serving as the Executive Assistant for the office.

"It's been a little tough since Marieta left," Leonard said. "I miss her a lot, but she gave me the tools I need and taught me everything I need to know so that I can move forward."

The only thing lacking now, Leonard said, is someone to be her "plus one".

"We are lacking someone here to help me with some of the administrative duties," Leonard said.

The ideal candidate for the position is someone who can work with computers, particularly Microsoft programs. Graphic design would also be beneficial to assist with the Chamber's Facebook page and their Website.

"Knowledge of Quick Books would be helpful as well," Leonard said, "however, I'm willing to train the right person for that."

The successful candidate would also answer phones and talk to people when they come in to the Chamber office.

"They would work 30 hours per week and have the opportunity for overtime when we host our events," Leonard said. "We have more than 12 events a year."

Spring Fling is the biggest event the Chamber hosts.

Successful candidates should be somewhat of a self-starter, be able to lift items such as chairs for events, and working with the community as much as the Chamber does, having a good personality is also a plus.

"Anyone friendly and outgoing," Leonard said. "They would help with our community events, talking to vendors and the people involved. We need someone friendly behind our desk to greet people when they come in the door."

The Chamber Executive Assistant is a shared position with Grant County Economic Development as well, so there will be some duties for them.

When asked what the most rewarding part of working with the Chamber was, Leonard said "what we can give back to the community."

"The quality of life events and things we do to put smiles on people's faces and bring things to Grant County," she said, adding that it is fun to not only host the events but be able to participate in them as well.

Some of the other events hosted by the chamber include weekly coffees, and the annual Home Products Dinner, 

Through the work at the Chamber, Leonard said, "You make a difference in the community."

Got what it takes to be a Chamber Plus One?  Those interested in the Executive Assistant position can call the Chamber office at 620-356-4700, or email them at chamberdirector@ulysseschamber.org.