The Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Programs Board of Directors has selected Tony Tam as its next President & Chief Executive Officer. Tam officially began his role on June 22, following Timothy James’s retirement, and will guide the Chamber’s ongoing work on behalf of its members and the broader community.

Tam brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in tourism, economic development, and business advocacy. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with businesses, community leaders, and industry partners to support growth and strengthen local economies. Tam has lived and worked in the Midlands for 25 years, active in the business community and numerous civic organizations.

“We are excited to welcome Tony to the Chamber and the Greater CWC business community, he is a respected business leader with deep roots in the Midlands, said JB Beckett, Chamber Board Chairman.” “As a Chamber and Community, we are grateful for the service and professionalism Tim James has broght to the position, and we know Tony is the right person to continue building upon those successes and serving our members.”

“I am honored to join the Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce and serve the businesses and communities” said Tam. “The Chamber has a strong foundation, and I look forward to working with the community to support local businesses, strengthen advocacy efforts, and continue creating opportunities throughout the area.”

Tam will assume his new role later this month, and the Board of Directors have asked that James serve as a mentor during the on-boarding process, allowing a time for Tam to be introduced to the members and stakeholders.

About the Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Programs has over 400 business members, serving the Greater Cayce-West Columbia areas, that include Springdale, South Congaree and other unincorporated areas of Lexington County. Known as a voice for business and tourism for the area by providing advocacy, networking, leadership development, and opportunities that support local businesses and strengthen the region.

About Tony Tams Professional history

Tam’s leadership service has included Chairman of the South Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association Executive Board, Chairman of the Midlands Authority for Conventions, Sports & Tourism (Experience Columbia), President of the Columbia Hotel & Motel Association, service on the South Carolina Tourism Expenditure Review Committee (TERC), the Columbia Urban League Board of Directors, the University of South Carolina Educational Foundation Board of Directors, local Hospitality and Accommodations Tax Committees, and numerous civic and community organizations.

A graduate of Furman University’s Riley Institute Diversity Leaders Initiative and recipient of the University of South Carolina Upstate’s 2025 Alumni of the Year Award, Tam has long been active in the Midlands’ business and civic communities and is proud to call the region home.