The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce recently announced the appointment of Michael W. Glenn as its new chairman of the board, effective immediately. A respected community leader, economic development advocate and 30-year Encinitas resident, Glenn brings more than 15 years of experience strengthening partnerships between businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies throughout San Diego County, according to a news release.
Glenn has been actively involved with the Encinitas Chamber for several years, currently serving on the Board of Directors and as co-chair of the Chamber’s Business & Economic Development Committee and chair of the Tourism Committee. In these roles, he has helped guide policy discussions, champion business-friendly initiatives, and lead public engagement efforts supporting a strong and resilient local economy, the news release stated.
“Michael’s collaborative leadership style, strategic vision, and deep commitment to Encinitas make him an exceptional choice to serve as chairman,” said Carol Knight, CEO of the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce, in the news release. “He understands the needs of our business community and has a proven track record of bringing stakeholders together to create meaningful progress. I look forward to working with him and our entire Board of Directors to continue to support Encinitas businesses while advancing a thriving local economy and quality of life for our community.”
In addition to his Chamber roles, Glenn spearheads the Visit Encinitas Tourism Advisory Board — a hospitality, arts, and retail “think tank” to promote sustainable, long-term business growth — where he has led destination marketing and community engagement initiatives that highlight Encinitas’ cultural, economic, and tourism assets. Under his leadership, Visit Encinitas has facilitated numerous cross-sector partnerships, and he was instrumental in the redevelopment of VisitEncinitasCA.com, a digital gateway promoting the region’s attractions and cultural assets.
A strong advocate for civic engagement, Glenn has organized and led numerous public forums, including the Chamber’s “Coffee on El Camino” series, fostering open dialogue between residents, business owners, and city officials to advance workforce development and public services, the news release stated.
Glenn is also the founder and former executive director of North County Board Meeting, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization he built from the ground up to support local charities and strengthen professional networks in North County. During his tenure, the organization partnered with more than 100 businesses to raise funds for underserved populations, focusing on housing stability, hunger relief, and community development.
“Encinitas has an incredible spirit of collaboration, innovation, and community pride,” said Glen in the news release. “I’m honored to serve as chairman of the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce and look forward to working alongside our board, staff, members, Encinitas businesses, the city and 101 Main Street Associations to support local businesses, strengthen partnerships, and continue building an inclusive and thriving local economy.”
A seasoned marketing and operations leader with more than 20 years driving growth for national and international brands, Glenn is a graduate of San Diego State University. He has completed additional professional training in grant writing, civic engagement, communications, and leadership. Across every role, he is known for his ability to build trust, connect diverse stakeholders, and turn community feedback into actionable outcomes, according to the news release.
For more information about the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce, membership benefits or upcoming events, visit encinitaschamber.com.