The Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce has appointed Paul Niedzwiecki as its next chief executive officer.
He will succeed Wendy Northcross, who retires on June 30 after leading the chamber for 24 years.
Niedzwiecki, of West Barnstable, is a public policy professional and attorney with more than two decades of experience in public administration and crafting environmental and economic policy on Cape Cod.
As former executive director of the Cape Cod Commission, Niedzwiecki worked to reorganize the region’s planning and regulatory agency to reduce red tape and assist communities to balance protection of the natural environment and fuel economic growth, while increasing transparency and community engagement.
“Paul has extensive knowledge on the issues facing our communities and businesses on the Cape, and he embodies the expertise needed to succeed as the Chamber’s next CEO”, said Chamber Board Chair Linda Markham, president of Cape Air. “We are very fortunate that we found a local candidate, and the Board looks forward to Paul’s continued leadership and vision.”
Niedzwiecki has also held senior positions with Southfield Redevelopment Authority and Cape Cod Healthcare. In addition, he served as the assistant town manager in Barnstable, the Cape’s largest town, where he established the Cape’s first Growth Incentive Zone to bolster downtown Hyannis small business and was the first chairman of the Cape Cod Water Protection Collaborative.
“The chamber is at a crucial point its 100-year history as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Niedzwiecki. “We must restabilize our economy, increase affordable and workforce housing stock, advance water quality management initiatives and prepare for construction of new Cape Cod Canal bridges. Wendy has certainly set a high bar for Chamber leadership, and I look forward to continuing her legacy of dedicated advocacy to improve quality of life on Cape Cod and ensure economic vitality for the region’s business community.”
“I have worked with Paul on many projects and initiatives throughout my tenure at the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce,” said Northcross. “His exceptional knowledge and deep local experience on crucial regional issues strongly positions him for success as the Chamber’s new CEO.”
Niedzwiecki holds a bachelor of science degree in public administration from Suffolk University and a juris doctor from Suffolk University Law School.
Niedzwiecki will assume the CEO position on July 1.
