Kirk Gentry, Chairman of the Board of the San Diego East County Chamber of Commerce announced to the Board of Directors on Thursday, April 10th that Mike Cully, current President/CEO of the Visalia California Chamber of Commerce would take over the reigns of the Chamber in May. Cully replaces Terry Saverson who retired from the Chamber at the start of the year.

Cully (42), is a San Diego native and grew up in Sacramento. He attended San Diego State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from the University of the Pacific in Stockton. Mike then pursued a career in television journalism working for the CBS, NBC and FOX networks. Mike spent seven years working as the Visalia Bureau Chief for KMPH, Fox 26 News, then worked as a Public Relations Manager for Kaiser Permanente in Fresno. Mike has served for four years as the President/CEO of the Visalia Chamber of Commerce. He is credited with the formation of a new Convention and Visitors Bureau for Visalia and led a drive to build a new building to house the Chamber and other non-profit organizations.

Cully when asked about the organization he will soon lead said "The San Diego East County Chamber of Commerce is already a strong, vibrant and well-respected business advocacy organization that has unlimited potential to continue to grow and expand its efforts in the region. I am extremely impressed by the dedication and talent of the staff, the vision and drive of its volunteer board of directors. This is an incredible opportunity, and I am fortunate and blessed to play a role in this exciting time of growth."

Gentry, who led the Chamber search committee, said, “Our search went throughout the Western United States, and the committee considered many qualified candidates. We are thrilled with the opportunity of having someone of Mike’s experience and energy to lead the Chamber.

Cully is due to take up his new position in mid-May.