Christopher Hobson is the new executive director for the Baker County Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau.

The Baker County Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors has hired Christopher Hobson as the chamber’s executive director.

Hobson replaces Devon Colton, who resigned Feb. 16.

In an email to chamber members on Monday, April 1, Hobson wrote: “I am honored to step into the role of Executive Director of the Baker County Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau. While many of you may know me from my previous roles within the community, I am thrilled to embark on this new journey with all of you, driven by a shared commitment to our community’s growth and prosperity. In my new capacity, I aim to leverage my experience in strategic marketing, community engagement, and sustainable development to elevate the success of our local businesses and our community as a whole.”

Chamber board president Jerry Peacock said Hobson’s “love of where he is” stood out during his interview.

“His connection to the communities in our county, wanting them to be better,” Peacock said. “We’re excited to have Christopher. He has a strong background in social media and marketing.”

Hobson most recently worked as a multimedia marketing consultant for the Baker City Herald.

Hobson was six years old when his parents moved to Baker City in 1988. From 2000 to 2010 he worked with his dad to build 350 houses in the Boise area.

Later he taught theater, set design and stage craft, and was a teaching assistant for script writing, at Portland Community College.

He also worked for a fabrication company that created designs for Nike, Adidas, Microsoft and Whole Foods.

Peacock said Hobson’s varied experience makes him well-rounded for the chamber job.

He and his wife, Jessica, moved to Baker City in the spring of 2020.