Wesley Chapel chamber leader steps down

Jason Wilson resigns his post after 18 months to start a public relations business.

By Lisa Buie Times Staff Writer
Published March 12, 2008

WESLEY CHAPEL - After a year-and-a-half of peddling memberships and organizing charity auctions, golf tournaments and the holiday tree lighting, Jason Wilson resigned as executive director of the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce to start his own marketing business.

Wilson, 27, said he was proud of his accomplishments at the chamber, but his goal had always been to go out on his own.

"It was time to do it," he said. "It's always been a kind of passion of mine."

Wilson has joined Jenelle Sherman to begin Full Circle Business Solutions, a public relations firm. The company will help clients raise their profiles with direct mail, special events and advertising.

Chamber president Devin Collins said the board was pleased with Wilson's performance.

"We knew at some point within a couple of years he wanted to do a magazine publication or go into communications," Collins said. "We were okay with that."

Under Wilson's leadership, membership in the Wesley Chapel chamber increased by about 200 to about 500 today, Collins said. Also, Wilson helped launch YES Pasco, a niche group of young professionals. He also worked to offer special events such the community's first holiday tree lighting.

"He brought a real energy and enthusiasm to the job," Collins said.

Chamber members have already begun looking for a replacement. For now, Collins is performing the duties of director.

The ideal candidate would be someone who is experienced in public speaking, organizing special events, newsletter publishing and promoting memberships.

Candidates may send resumes to office@wesleychapelchamber.com

Lisa Buie can be reached at buie@sptimes.com or 813 909-4604.

[Last modified March 11, 2008, 22:59:28]