Belleville Chamber president departs after 16 years; new president starts on July 14

The Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce recently announced that President and CEO Wendy J. Pfeil was stepping down from her role after 16 years of dedicated service to the organization and the Belleville business community.

“Wendy has played a pivotal role in shaping the Chamber’s growth and success, having served first as Membership Development Director and most recently as President/CEO. Her visionary leadership, tireless dedication, and passion for community advancement have left a lasting mark on the Chamber and the greater Belleville area,” the official announcement noted.

“Wendy’s impact over the years has been nothing short of extraordinary,” said Brett Baltz, board chairman. “Her leadership has guided the Chamber through years of growth, innovation, and meaningful community engagement. We are deeply grateful for her service and the legacy she leaves behind.”

The announcement also noted that Pfeil has “long been recognized as a dynamic and highly sought-after executive in the region, and that the chamber was proud to share that she will soon take on a new leadership role that will allow her to serve an even broader segment of the Southern Illinois community.”

In an email dated today [June 16, 2025], Pfeil shared that the chamber would welcome its new president and CEO, Maribeth Bendick, on July 14, 2025.

Pfeil further shared: “Serving this amazing community has been one of the great honors of my career. I am deeply grateful for the support, collaboration, and friendships that have made this journey so meaningful. The Greater Belleville Chamber is in wonderful hands and poised for a bright future. I have every confidence that under Maribeth’s leadership, the Chamber will continue to grow and thrive—creating new opportunities for its members and the Belleville community. Thank you again for the memories and the support. I look forward to seeing you around and cheering on the Chamber’s continued success!”