Salem Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New Executive Director and Assistant Director

The Salem Chamber of Commerce is pleased to introduce the new team leading our organization. Jeff Swartz has been promoted to Executive Director and hired Amanda Larson as his replacement for Assistant Director. Swartz, who has served the Chamber for over six years, steps into this leadership role with a deep commitment to Salem’s business community and a strong record of dedicated service. 

In his previous role as Assistant Director, Swartz played a vital part in fostering connections among nearly 500 member businesses, supporting economic growth initiatives, and strengthening relationships with city leaders. Throughout his tenure, he has worked closely with the Mayor, City Councillors, and municipal department heads, earning a reputation as a trusted, collaborative partner. 

Swartz earned a Bachelors in History, cum laude, from Salem State University in 2012. His dedication to Salem extends beyond his professional work; Swartz currently serves as Vice Chair of the Salem Transportation Commission, where he champions inclusive community engagement and consensus-driven solutions. He has also served as a trustee for the Pickering House since 2019.  

A resident of downtown Salem, Swartz has a personal passion for the city’s unique character, notably its role in American history, maritime heritage, and many important “firsts”. Swartz shared, “I love the walkability of Salem, living downtown, and the incredible passion that so many local entrepreneurs pour into their businesses. Salem is continuously evolving but remains a community of small businesses that look out for each other. I am excited for the opportunity to advocate for local business, create connections and support the incredible people who make it so special.”  

Among Jeff Swartz’s other interests include spending time with his wife Ana, doting on their two cats Belly and Miche, serving as a Revolutionary War reenactor with the Danvers Alarm List Company, and playing Magic: The Gathering or Dungeons and Dragons with friends. 

Swartz’s leadership reflects a warm, approachable style paired with a steadfast focus on advocacy and community support. In his new role, he will continue to build on the Chamber’s mission to promote economic vitality and make Salem as strong, economically resilient, and sustainable as we can be, particularly in the uncertain economic climate the nation is in. 


 

Rounding out the Salem Chamber team, Amanda Larson brings a strong background in public education administration and community engagement to her role at the Salem Chamber of Commerce. With experience supporting high-level leadership and coordinating strategic initiatives, she is passionate about fostering meaningful connections between local businesses, civic organizations, and residents.

"Salem’s strength is in its diversity: of people, ideas, and local businesses. I’m proud to support and live in a community where inclusion and collaboration drive meaningful progress.", shared Larson.

Outside of work, Amanda is an avid reader, lover of live music, and creative spirit who enjoys writing, playing ukulele, and supporting the arts. She is also a proud pet parent to her dog, Oatmeal and cat, Saoirse. She is deeply passionate about mental health advocacy and uplifting the queer community. She is especially drawn to initiatives that promote equality and inclusion.



Swartz encourages everyone to “reach out and introduce yourself if we haven’t met you, or stop by our office for a visit. We would love to meet you, learn more about your company or nonprofit, and continue building a better community together”.