Matt Pivarnik has been named the new Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce C.E.O.

With a strong emphasis on collaboration and community engagement, Matt Pivarnik aims to foster an environment that attracts both residents and tourists alike. Myrtle Beach is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and family-friendly attractions, making it one of the most sought-after vacation destinations in the southeastern United States.

This thorough search involved interviews with numerous candidates from various backgrounds, showcasing the Chamber’s commitment to finding a leader who not only possesses the necessary skills and experience but is also a good cultural fit for the community. The selection process included input from local business leaders, stakeholders, and community members, ensuring that the chosen candidate aligns with the vision and goals of the Myrtle Beach area.

Topeka officials announced that Pivarnik became the CEO of the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce in 2016. During his tenure, Topeka experienced a significant period of cooperation, economic renewal, and community expansion. He was instrumental in establishing the Greater Topeka Partnership, amalgamating groups such as GO Topeka, Visit Topeka, and Downtown Topeka, Inc. into a cohesive body that has spearheaded multiple economic and community development projects.

“Matt has been a transformational leader for Topeka,” said Cody Foster, former chair of the Greater Topeka Partnership and co-founder of Advisors Excel. “While I’m sad to see him leave the community, both as a leader and a friend, I also know he’s built a solid foundation for a new leader to come and build upon. The team he’s assembled and the progress that has been made over the past decade has positioned Topeka, and the next leader of the GTP, to do some incredible things.”

Under Pivarnik’s leadership, Topeka saw substantial business investments, an increase in population, and revitalization initiatives in the downtown area that transformed the city’s trajectory. His guidance played a key role in promoting cooperation among neighboring regions, drawing in fresh sectors, and establishing Topeka as a center for economic and community progress.

“Matt Pivarnik has been more than a leader—he’s been a true friend and a driving force behind Topeka’s transformation,” said Dr. Shekhar Challa, current chair of the Greater Topeka Partnership and owner of Kansas Medical Clinic. “When he first arrived, we were a community that was often divided and unsure. Matt saw Topeka’s potential and helped our community believe in itself. His ability to bring people together and rally our community around a shared vision has made a lasting impact. While I’m personally sad to see him go, I’m incredibly grateful for his leadership, friendship, and all he’s done to make Topeka a better place.”

Matt Pivarnik’s Vision for the Myrtle Beach Community

Such significant economic growth did not occur in isolation; it was the result of strategic partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and community organizations. Matt Pivarnik understands that collaboration and strong relationships are key to creating a thriving local economy. By leveraging these partnerships, he aims to replicate similar successes in Myrtle Beach, fostering a vibrant business community that benefits all residents.

His vision extends beyond economic development; he is also committed to enhancing the area’s tourism appeal. Myrtle Beach attracts millions of visitors each year, and Pivarnik recognizes the importance of promoting the region’s unique offerings to both domestic and international audiences. His goal is to position Myrtle Beach not only as a tourist destination but also as a great place for families and individuals to live and work.

Furthermore, Pivarnik’s approach to leadership includes a focus on sustainability and responsible tourism. He plans to work closely with local environmental organizations and stakeholders to ensure that Myrtle Beach remains a beautiful and healthy destination for future generations. This includes promoting eco-friendly practices among local businesses and encouraging visitors to engage in sustainable tourism activities.

In the interim, Tracy Conner’s leadership has provided stability during this transitional period. Conner has been instrumental in maintaining operations and supporting the chamber’s initiatives, ensuring that the organization continues to meet the needs of its members and the community at large. Pivarnik will inherit a strong foundation to build upon, thanks to Conner’s dedication and leadership.

Following an extensive search spanning several months nationwide, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and CVB revealed the individual selected to assume the role of the organization’s new president and CEO last Friday.

The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce stated that Matt Pivarnik will provide three decades of leadership in the position.

He last served as the CEO of the Greater Topeka Partnership in Kansas, where Matt Pivarnik was influential in its establishment.

“Under his leadership, the capital city metro received national recognition as a top U.S. city to live and visit, experiencing a $2 billion increase in GDP, a 24 percent rise in household income and notable improvements in public safety,” MBACC news release states.

Matt Pivarnik expressed his desire to bring his expertise to this vibrant community.

“The Grand Strand is a dynamic, world-class place to live and visit, and this is an exciting time in its evolution,” Pivarnik said “I look forward to working alongside the community to build on the region’s strengths and further enhance the exceptional quality of life it provides.”

Matt Pivarnik’s official start date will be in May.

Tracy Conner will remain in the role of interim president and CEO until then, having assumed the position following Karen Riordan’s departure in June 2024.