Rotorua Chamber of Commerce chief executive Allison Lawton steps down

Rotorua chief executive Allison Lawton will step down at the end of June. Photo / File

The Rotorua Chamber of Commerce chief executive is stepping down from the role as the chamber begins it search for a fulltime chief executive.

Allison Lawton had been in the role part-time for 18 months and said it was the right time to go.

"The chamber has made significant progress and whoever fills the role has been left with a solid platform to launch off," Lawton said.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at the helm."

Lawton was stepping down to concentrate on her consultancy business.

"I feel really proud of the changes the chamber has made, representing a wide range of our diverse business community. Through the chamber, Rotorua as a business destination is attracting the attention of those around the country."

Lawton said she would remain involved, and would return to being a board member in time.

Rotorua Chamber of Commerce president John McRae said the chamber had been fortunate to have had Lawton but it now needed a fulltime chief executive.

"Lawton has brought energy and a strong can-do attitude," McRae said.

"The Rotorua Chamber of Commerce sits in a very healthy position, as we continue to play a vital role in the sustainable growth of our city's prosperity and health."

Lawton will leave the role at the end of June.

McRae said the board was looking for someone with energy and passion for the Rotorua community who could "progress the interests of business in Rotorua".

McRae said the board was preferably looking for a local, with strong business acumen, who was a strategic thinker and could keep building a vibrant business community.