The Gateway Regional Chamber of Commerce announced Monday that business leader Brian Tangora is the organization’s new president and CEO.
With over 23 years of experience in the nonprofit, private, and public sectors – including four years leading another northern New Jersey chamber of commerce – Tangora brings a wealth of expertise in cultivating strategic partnerships, expanding alliances, and developing successful business programs. He succeeds Jim Coyle, who served as the Gateway Chamber’s CEO for over two decades and left in 2022.
Lou Beckerman, who led the search committee, said he was delighted Tangora has accepted the role.
“We are very excited that Brian will be leading the Gateway Regional Chamber and our broad-based activities,” Beckerman said. “Brian brings an outstanding track record of success across public and private sectors … we look forward to his leadership in the months and years to come.”
“I am very excited and honored to join an outstanding team of leaders to advance the region’s business environment and quality of life,” Tangora said. “Our region is very well positioned to take advantage of many existing assets and partnerships and I’m looking forward to getting started.”
Tangora most recently served as the executive director of the grassroots advocacy organization Jersey 1st, where he oversaw operations, financial management, strategic partnerships, marketing strategy, and outreach efforts.
He also previously led the North Jersey Chamber of Commerce as its president and CEO from 2013-2017. During his tenure he successfully rebranded the century-old organization and grew both membership and revenue. Tangora’s strategic initiatives resulted in a 147% increase in membership and expanded the chamber’s geographical footprint by 243%.
In his new role as president and CEO of the Gateway Regional Chamber of Commerce, Tangora will work to drive economic growth, advocate for businesses, and foster strong partnerships with the community.
Founded in 1911, The Gateway Regional Chamber of Commerce is celebrating over 111 years as a leading business organization in the region and is the largest business association in northern New Jersey with over 1,200 members ranging from Fortune 100 corporations to entrepreneurial businesses.
