Southwestern Vermont Chamber names Harrington CEO after decade of service

Matt Harrington takes on expanded role overseeing regional chamber enterprise

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce has named Matt Harrington as its new Chief Executive Officer, recognizing his decade of leadership and the growing scope of the organization's work across the region. Harrington has served as Executive Director since 2016, guiding the chamber's transformation into a multi-entity regional enterprise focused on business growth, workforce development, tourism, and long-term economic vitality.

Why it matters

Harrington's appointment reflects the Southwestern Vermont Chamber's evolution into a more prominent regional force, with expanded responsibilities and initiatives beyond a traditional town-based chamber. His leadership has been instrumental in driving innovation, strengthening the organization, and delivering meaningful impact for the local business community.

The details

As CEO, Harrington now oversees the Chamber, affiliated organizations including The Shires of Southwestern Vermont Destination Marketing Organization (DMO), The Shires Young Professionals (SYP), the Bennington State Welcome Center, and the newly-founded Southwestern Vermont Chamber Foundation. Under his leadership, the Chamber has experienced significant growth in membership, programming, partnerships, and regional influence, with initiatives like the reinvention of Garlic Fest into Garlic Town, USA, and the creation of other award-winning community festivals.

  • Harrington has served as Executive Director of the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce since 2016.
  • Harrington was named CEO at the Chamber's Annual Membership Meeting on January 30, 2026.

The players

Matt Harrington

The new Chief Executive Officer of the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce, having previously served as Executive Director since 2016. Harrington has guided the chamber's transformation into a multi-entity regional enterprise focused on business growth, workforce development, tourism, and long-term economic vitality.

Shannon McLenithan

The President of the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce's Board of Directors.

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What they’re saying

“There has never been a more exciting time to be part of the Southwestern Vermont Chamber, and that momentum is the direct result of Matt's leadership. The Board of Directors is proud to formally name Matt Harrington Chief Executive Officer — a recognition that reflects both the role he has already been fulfilling and the future we are building together.”

— Shannon McLenithan, President, Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors (vermontbiz.com)

“Serving this Chamber and this region for the past decade has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Even in the hardest seasons — through economic uncertainty, a global pandemic, stretched resources, and difficult decisions — I've never lost sight of how fortunate I am to do work I once dreamed about, alongside people who care deeply about this community. To now step into the role of CEO is both humbling and energizing. It's a responsibility I carry with gratitude, and a commitment to continue building — together — a Southwestern Vermont where businesses thrive, families choose to live, and the next generation sees real opportunity.”

— Matt Harrington, Chief Executive Officer, Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce (vermontbiz.com)

What’s next

Harrington will continue advancing the chamber's regional vision focused on business competitiveness, workforce attraction and retention, inclusive tourism, leadership development, and catalytic economic projects designed to strengthen Southwestern Vermont for the next generation.

The takeaway

Harrington's appointment as CEO reflects the Southwestern Vermont Chamber's evolution into a more prominent regional force, with his leadership driving innovation, strengthening the organization, and delivering meaningful impact for the local business community.