Under the leadership of Lance Beck, the current president and CEO of Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, the organization has shifted priorities from events to the development of proactive, strategic partnerships for businesses, investors, and public-sector stakeholders.

Beck will join Greater Spokane Incorporated in early March as chief strategy officer, where his duties will focus on advancing strategic priorities and strengthening partnerships in the region.

Education: Bachelor’s degrees in marketing and business management, Whitworth University.

What’s the best career advice you’ve received? Listen more than you speak — and really listen with intent. Most of the time, the quality of the decision depends on how well you understand what’s being said and what’s not.

What’s one thing that makes you most proud? Seeing individuals I have had as team members go on and become leaders themselves.

What was your first job and what did you learn from it? My first job was collecting range balls at Wandermere Golf Course when I was in first grade. I learned early to enjoy the work, value both the paycheck and the experience, and understand that doing a good job tends to lead to more opportunity.

Why did you choose your career path? This career path evolved more than it was chosen. I was consistently drawn to roles that created value for people — whether through service or entertainment and that combination brought real satisfaction. Early in my career it was about enjoying the work; today it’s about pushing myself and building impact.