Commerce Chenango Finance Director John Axtell. (Submitted photo)

by Sophia Root,

Commerce Chenango

NORWICH - Earlier this month, Commerce Chenango welcomed a new Finance Director, John Axtell. Axtell will oversee the financial aspects of the organization, as well as general IT operations and Human Resources functions.

Axtell is local to Edmeston, having graduated from Laurens Central School. Axtell attended Ithaca College where he studied finance and management. He then received his MBA in business operations from Keller Graduate School of Management.

After more than 30 years in IT management, insurance and wholesale finance, Axtell’s career has taken him to different locations in New York State, Massachusetts, and Wisconsin. Axtell states, “I am happy to take on this position. I believe there is alignment between this stage of my career and the mission of Commerce Chenango, giving back to the community.”

Axtell is no stranger to community involvement and volunteerism. He has coached youth sports in the Oneonta/Cooperstown area and has served as the treasurer and secretary for the Edmeston Fire District since 2019.

Commerce Chenango President & CEO Sal Testani states, “We are very fortunate to add someone with John’s experience. The financial acumen he brings to Commerce Chenango will benefit the organization in many ways. We are excited to have him join our team.”

Rounding out the Commerce Chenango team is Program and Events Manager Barb Knowles, Office Manager John Holden, Communications and Marketing Coordinator/Tourism Director Sophia Root, Membership Director Terri Slater, and Economic Development Director Tyler Oliver.