Dawn Smith (pictured) will fill the Greater Golden Chamber of Commerce CEO position left vacant by Gary Wink, who retires on Jan. 15, 2014.

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Golden Chamber of Commerce announced its new CEO and president on Thursday, Jan. 2.

Dawn Smith will fill the vacancy position left by Gary Wink, who retires on Jan. 15.

“I am thrilled to be joining the team at the Golden Chamber of Commerce. I've enjoyed collaborating with the staff at Jefferson County Chamber events over the past three years, and welcome the opportunity to run along-side them now,” Smith said in an email to the Transcript. “Gary Wink is one of a kind, and he has made the Golden Chamber a first-rate organization. I'm eager to continue his successes, and explore new horizons for our business owners, nonprofit leaders, and visitors to our charming town.”

Smith is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University and the Leadership Evergreen Class of 2011. She was the executive director for the Conifer Chamber for over three years, and has held positions in executive and leadership levels, including fundraising by taking part on the development team for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Colorado Chapter.

She also has a background as office manager for a Milwaukee law firm, newsroom coordinator for KPBS, an NPR affiliate in San Diego, and spent 10 years in Los Angeles involved in making films including Austin Powers "The Spy Who Shagged Me," "Wag the Dog," and the "Vertical Limit."

Dawn is married to the Rev. Dr. Aaron Smith, who teaches theology and philosophy at Colorado Christian University.

“We are very pleased to announce this appointment,” said Dianne Bennett, chair-elect for 2014 in a press release. “Dawn will bring new leadership and creativity to the Chamber's programs and a deep sense of commitment to our local businesses … performing at all program, fundraising, executive and leadership levels, Dawn brings a breadth of perspective and experience.”