Matthew Pivarnik Named President and CEO of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber and CVB
Following a comprehensive, community-driven search, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce (MBACC) and Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) have announced that Matthew "Matt" Pivarnik, IOM, CCE, will serve as the organization's new President and CEO.
Pivarnik brings more than 30 years of proven leadership experience to the Grand Strand, most recently as CEO of the Greater Topeka Partnership in Kansas, where he oversaw operations of the Greater Topeka Chamber, Visit Topeka, GO Topeka and Downtown Topeka Inc., among others.
"I'm honored to join the team at the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber and bring my experience to this thriving community," Pivarnik said. "The Grand Strand is a dynamic, world-class place to live and visit, and this is an exciting time in its evolution. I look forward to working alongside the community to build on the region's strengths and further enhance the exceptional quality of life it provides."
Pivarnik played a pivotal role in forming the Greater Topeka Partnership in 2018, a collaboration that successfully unified regional efforts and contributed to the area's significant revitalization. Under his leadership, the capital city metro received national recognition as a top U.S. city to live and visit, experiencing a $2 billion increase in GDP, a 24% rise in household income and notable improvements in public safety. Prior to his time in Topeka, Pivarnik served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Tulsa (Oklahoma) Regional Chamber and played a key role in the organization's achievements, including receiving the top industry recognition in 2005, 2008 and 2010.
"We are thrilled to welcome Matt Pivarnik as the new President and CEO of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce," said MBACC Board Chairman Patrick Norton. "Matt's visionary leadership and proven track record makes him the ideal choice to lead our chamber and contribute to our community during a very exciting time."
Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune, a member of the 10-person executive selection committee, echoed praise for Pivarnik's destination development achievements.
"Matt's experience in chamber leadership and community building have been instrumental in enhancing metro regions similar to ours," Bethune said. "He has a proven ability for infusing organizations and communities with positive energy, fostering unity and driving strategic initiatives, perfectly aligning with our vision for the future."
Mike Hagg, retired HTC CEO, chaired the 10-person executive search committee that included many notable leaders from across the Grand Strand.
"With more than 150 accomplished business leaders from across the country and locally expressing interest in the position, the search process was rigorous," Hagg said. "While several stood out, Matt's experience as a strategic visionary and his passion for community made him the clear choice to drive positive impact for our entire region."
Pivarnik and his wife, Wendy, will relocate to the Myrtle Beach area in the coming months as he prepares to officially take the helm of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber and CVB by mid-May. Until then, Tracy Conner will continue serving as interim President and CEO.
Courtesy of Groups Today.
Photo courtesy Visit Myrtle Beach.
