Rachel Knudsen is the new executive director of the Fort Macleod and District Chamber of Commerce.
Rachel Knudsen has been busy getting to know Fort Macleod, its businesses and its residents.
That work is going well so far, according to the new executive director of the Fort Macleod and District Chamber of Commerce.
“I’m enjoying the warm welcome from local businesses, the strong community spirit, and the chance to start building relationships that make Fort Macleod such a special place to serve,” Knudsen said.
Knudsen steps into the part-time position to replace former executive director Ashley Tebbutt, who resigned to accept a full-time job at a Fort Macleod business.
Chamber president Mike Bourassa and his board were pleased to bring Knudsen into the fold.
“Rachel is a good fit for what the Chamber and its members need,” Bourassa said. “She brings a lot of experience, is very organized and meets people well. So far she has been a self-starter who isn’t afraid to take challenges head-on.”
Bourassa added that Knudsen started at a busy time, having to organize the Chamber’s Moonlight Madness late-night shopping promotion for last Friday, and handled it well.
Bourassa said he appreciated Tebbutt taking extra time to train Knudsen and introduce her to members.
“We as a board are excited to watch Rachel grow in this role and make the position her own,” Bourassa said.
Knudsen, who is from Lethbridge, identified several ways her interests and abilities lined up with the executive director’s role.
“I was drawn to this role because it aligns with my passion for supporting local business and community growth,” Knudsen said. “It gives me an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Fort Macleod’s economic vitality.”
Knudsen has a Bachelor of fine Arts from Concordia University and a Master of Library and Information Studies from the University of Alberta.
That education provided the new executive director with a blend of creativity, research strength, and strategic thinking that she brings to the Chamber of Commerce.
“I bring strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, along with years of experience managing programs, building partnerships, and working closely with diverse community stakeholders,” Knudsen said.
Knudsen has 15 years of experience in archives and community-focused roles managing operations, leading teams in developing initiatives to strengthen local engagement.
As Chamber executive director, Knudsen will work to strengthen communication with members, grow partnerships, and support business success.
Knudsen will endeavour to do those things through programming, advocacy and community connections.
“Right now, I’m focused on meeting local business owners, learning the Chamber’s ongoing initiatives, and identifying immediate opportunities to support members and increase engagement,” Knudsen said.
“I’m committed to championing the local business community and working collaboratively to help Fort Macleod continue to grow, thrive, and feel connected.”
Knudsen will generally be in the office Tuesday to Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Chamber’s next major project is the annual Business Awards Gala on Feb. 26.
Knudsen also wants to hear from Fort Macleod about priorities and concerns.
“What I need most is insight from the community,” Knudsen said. “I’ll be sending out a survey in December, and the more voices we hear, the better we can shape meaningful initiatives and services for 2026 that truly reflect the needs and priorities of local businesses.”
The survey will go out by e-mail, social media and on the Chamber Web site at fortmacleodchamber.ca.
For information about the Fort Macleod Chamber of Commerce, contact Rachel Knudsen at 403-431-3643 or fmchamber1888@gmail.com.
