NORWICH – The former executive coordinator of the Potsdam Chamber of Commerce - and a native of Norwich - has been named economic development director of Commerce Chenango (formerly the Chenango County Chamber of Commerce).

Jennifer Tavares, daughter of Robert and Karen Kirkby of Norwich, assumes her new role Monday. The position, which also coordinates Empire Zones benefits on behalf of the county, has been vacant since Commerce Chenango’s previous economic development director, Maureen Carpenter, was named president and chief executive officer of the organization last month.

“Over the course of our search, we received many resumes from qualified candidates. We believe Jennifer is an excellent choice and will be a wonderful asset to this community,” Carpenter said. Carpenter begins her new role also on Monday.

Executive coordinator of the Potsdam Chamber since 2005, Tavares has assisted start-up ventures, larger enterprises and downtown businesses in locating financial and government sector resources and forming integral partnerships. The organization enjoyed a 30 percent increase in its annual operating budget and membership base under her leadership.