Terry Banez, interim director of the Greater Williamsburg Chamber & Tourism Alliance’s Business Council. (WYDaily photo/Courtesy GWTCA)
The Greater Williamsburg Chamber & Tourism Alliance on Friday appointed Terry Banez as the new interim executive director for its Business Council.
Banez brings more than 25 years of business leadership experience to the organization.
“I am really excited about the opportunity to lead business growth in this amazing region,” Banez said in a news release. “This opportunity allows me to lead the next chapter for the Business Council of the Greater Williamsburg Chamber & Tourism Alliance, while serving a vibrant business community with over 800 Alliance members. The Business Council is focused on leading all of our diverse industries to grow economic impact and support the community.”
Board Chair Jeanne Zeidler said Banez is a strong leader who will guide the council as it undergoes a transformation to serve businesses in the Greater Williamsburg region.
“Our confidence in Terry’s ability to steer and operate the organization is strengthened by her business leadership experience in Williamsburg, nationally and globally” Zeidler said. “Terry’s passion to see local business grow and thrive is visible in her passion for our region.”
Before joining GWCTA, Banez was director of trade strategy and operations for Newell Brands (Yankee Candle Co. Division), leading over $300 million in business. She also was director of sales and operations for Yankee Candle and was the opening general manager of the company’s Williamsburg store.
Banez has served on the board of the United Way of Greater Williamsburg, was a member of the board and executive committee for the Greater Williamsburg Chamber & Tourism Alliance, and has worked with Avalon Women’s Shelter, the Wounded Warriors Project, Habitat for Humanity and other community organizations.
Banez grew up in Williamsburg and is graduate of Lafayette High School.
Banez will begin her new post with the alliance on Sept. 4
Bryan DeVasher is the managing editor-digital of WYDaily. A resident of Hampton Roads for more than two decades, he has worked for news organizations in Virginia, Illinois, Missouri and Indiana. He most recently was a member of the public relations staff for Virginia State Police.
