A.J. BAYNES
PRESIDENT/CEO
A.J. Baynes, Jr. officially took over as President & CEO of the Amherst Chamber of Commerce in January 2018. Continuing a legacy of business focused programming and growth, throughout Western NY, he leads the organization with a strong commitment to advancing its investors, members, partners, and the Economic Development and Public Policy Agenda of the chamber. His dedication to promoting and elevating businesses of all sizes results in further collaborative partnerships in the Buffalo Niagara community.
A.J. comes to the chamber with an expansive history in the political forefront, most recently serving our region from a legislative stance. He was also hands on in his family's logistics business where he learned and experienced what business owners are challenged with each day.
He has an open door policy for all members and continuously seeks feedback, comments and suggestions for advancing our region.
CHRISTINE LANGENFELD
DIRECTOR, MARKETING & OPERATIONS
*LICENSED NYS HEALTH INSURANCE BROKER
Christine serves as an integral part of the Amherst Chamber and is responsible for marketing and operation functions and has fiduciary oversight of the organization’s assets and resources. A business administrator with a rich history in sales, marketing, and operations, she contributes to the growth and transformation of the chamber in this ever changing world. Passionate about shopping local and supporting local initiatives, she administers the successful Shop 716 program in collaboration with Erie County and Visit Buffalo Niagara.
Her experience advances the organization providing a strong foundation. With the drive and ability to share her expertise with the members and partners that the chamber serves, she also has the shared commitment with advancing the Buffalo Niagara region.
BENEFITS MANAGER
*LICENSED NYS HEALTH INSURANCE BROKER
Penny manages the day-to-day insurance division of the Amherst Chamber and is responsible for the administration of all health insurance-related activities. Her area is critical to the success of our member companies, since the chamber provides the service and support to the employees so that the businesses can concentrate on what they do best!
With a long history in this arena, Penny successfully provides guidance and recommendations that are most suitable to the subscriber.
The benefits division of the chamber offers customizable solutions offering the three major carriers in Western NY:
BCBS of WNY, Independent Health and Univera
Dental and vision plans, employee assistance program and life insurance is also available.
MAUREEN GIRVEN
MEMBER BENEFITS MANAGER
Maureen serves as a liaison for members of the Amherst Chamber. She is responsible to ensure all members are onboarded and informed of the many advantages. She coordinates and leads the professional networking groups (ProNets) and the Emerging Business Leaders, a growing young professionals cohort. Maureen will meet with your business to understand your needs and assist in the next steps of health insurance, networking, ribbon cuttings, marketing requests, and even economic development and public policy contributions.
With a background in hospitality and accounting, Maureen is dedicated to make sure that all member needs are met. She will familiarize you with the many benefits of membership and assist in introductions to peer members. Maureen operates as a business community conduit and communicates gaps in the marketplace with chamber leadership for the purpose of mobilizing programs and services as a solution.
INSURANCE BROKER & MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
*LICENSED NYS HEALTH INSURANCE BROKER
Matthew comes to the Amherst Chamber with an extensive knowledge in sales, operations, and business development. Well versed with the benefits of membership, he has a strong commitment to assist with questions related to health, dental, vision and life insurance while ensuring those businesses maximize their membership.
An avid volleyball player and Buffalo Bills fan (Go Bills!), Matthew loves Western NY and all it has to offer.
The benefits division of the chamber offers customizable solutions offering the three major carriers in Western NY:
BCBS of WNY, Independent Health and Univera.
Dental and vision plans, employee assistance program and life insurance is also available.
