​Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce Announces Leadership Transition

Santa Ana Chamber Bids Farewell to Vice President Marty Peterson, Welcomes New Leadership

SANTA ANA, CA – December 1, 2025 – The Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce announces the retirement of Marty Peterson, Vice President of Operations, effective November 30, 2025, and the promotion of two key staff members to leadership positions.

Cheryl Watson, who has served as Chief of Staff & Membership Director since 2009, will assume the role of Vice President of Operations. Claudette John, currently Business Development Manager, will step into the newly formed role of Director of Membership & Events.

"Marty Peterson has been an invaluable leader to our organization," said David Elliott, President & CEO of the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce. "His strategic vision and dedication have strengthened our financial foundation and expanded our programming in ways that continue to benefit our business community."

MARTY PETERSON'S LEGACY

During his tenure with the Chamber, Peterson was instrumental in restructuring the organization's finances, providing stability and setting the foundation for long-term growth. He successfully implemented and managed California's Employment Training Panel Program, bringing significant additional revenue streams to the Chamber. Peterson also played a key role in the team that launched High School Inc., which has become one of the Chamber's most successful programs.

CHERYL WATSON PROMOTED TO VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

Watson brings 17 years of dedicated service to the Santa Ana Chamber to her new role. Since joining the organization in 2009 as Chief of Staff & Membership Director, she has been instrumental in member engagement, retention, and organizational development. 

Prior to her tenure at the Chamber, Watson served as Director of Marketing at Optex, Inc. from 2001 to 2008, and spent nearly a decade as Area Manager Assistant with ADI/Honeywell Security Group. She holds a degree from Golden West College.

"Cheryl's institutional knowledge, commitment to our members, and proven leadership make her the ideal person to step into this critical role," Elliott added. "She has been a cornerstone of our organization for nearly 17 years, and we're excited to see her take on this new challenge."

CLAUDETTE JOHN NAMED DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP & EVENTS

John has served as Business Development Manager for the Santa Ana Chamber since July 2024 through CMJ Coast Marketing, LLC. In this role, she has driven business development initiatives and member engagement strategies for the organization.

John brings extensive business development and e-commerce expertise to her new position. She previously served as Senior E-Commerce Merchandising Manager at Avery Products Corporation, where she directed strategic content optimization initiatives and managed cross-functional teams. Earlier in her career, she held progressive roles at Avery Dennison, including Senior Product Marketing Manager for the Martha Stewart Home Office line, where she led the launch of new product categories representing a $40 million business.

She holds an MBA in Marketing from Loyola Marymount University, with a Certificate in International Business, and a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Management from California State University, Fullerton.

"Claudette has demonstrated exceptional business acumen and a talent for building relationships," said Elliott. "Her strategic mindset and marketing expertise will serve our members well as she takes on this expanded leadership role."

The leadership transitions are effective December 1, 2025.

About the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce
The Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce is a business advocacy organization representing businesses of all sizes in Santa Ana and the surrounding communities. The Chamber provides networking opportunities, business resources, advocacy, and programs designed to help businesses grow and thrive.

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For media inquiries, please contact:
David Elliott, President & CEO
Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce
714-541-5353 ext. 121
delliott@santaanachamber.com