The Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Niagara-on-the-Lake has appointed Kathy Weiss as its new interim executive director.

Weiss replaces Minerva Ward, who suddenly departed as president of the chamber in mid-April.

Board chair Andrew Niven announced Weiss’s appointment Wednesday afternoon, noting she has “an extensive background in both Chamber of Commerce and tourism management, as well as economic development.”

He noted the organization is beginning to finalize its strategic and tactical marketing plans.

“With a passion for driving business growth and promoting the unique cultural and historical offerings of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Kathy is well-equipped to lead the organization forward during this critical period of revitalization,” Niven said.

She starts in the job on May 20.

Weiss spent two years as a project facilitator with the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake working on its tourism strategy. For the past year she has been a director with Hickey Global Canada.

“Niagara-on-the-Lake holds a special place in the hearts of residents and visitors alike,” Weiss said in a statement.

“I am committed to working closely with the board and stakeholders to promote our community’s rich cultural heritage and support the growth of our local economy.”