Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce President Kirk Mancer has resigned to take a similar position with the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce. His last day is scheduled for June 30.

The move was officially announced Friday afternoon to Chamber board members.

Mancer has served the past nine years as Cullman Chamber president, and said he is excited to take the reins in a larger county.

“I’ve truly enjoyed my time in Cullman County, but you’re talking about moving from a community of 81,000 to a community of 200,000 — and Shelby County is the sixth largest in the state, and the fastest growing county in the state,” Mancer said. “It’s a larger organization, and an opportunity to grow and see if I can be the team leader for that size community.”

Though he’s looking forward to the challenge, Mancer said he will truly miss Cullman.

“It has been a wonderful opportunity to work with a lot of quality individuals, and I hope some of the programs and activities the Chamber has launched can continue,” he said. “I truly hope those have been productive, and will continue to be productive, for the membership and the community as a whole. Of course, you’re always working for members, but everything you do is also helping and impacting the community.”

After receiving the news Friday, Chamber members were saddened to learn of Mancer’s decision — but proud to see him moving on to a larger community.

“He will truly be missed, and he has done a great job,” Chamber board member Sammie Danford said. “But, of course, you never want to stand in anyone’s way. We wish him the absolute best.”

Chamber board member and Hanceville Mayor Kenneth Nail echoed those sentiments, and said Mancer’s legacy should endure for some time in Cullman.

“I think Kirk has done a really good job, and I hate to see him leave,” he said. “I think he’s done a lot of good things for Cullman County.”

The Chamber board will begin working soon to fill the position.