The Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Programs has named Tony Tam as its next President and Chief Executive Officer.
Tam officially assumes the role this month as longtime Chamber leader Tim James prepares to retire at the end of June. The Chamber’s Board of Directors selected Tam to lead the organization’s ongoing efforts to support local businesses, promote tourism, and strengthen economic development throughout the Greater Cayce-West Columbia region.
Tam brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in tourism, economic development, hospitality, and business advocacy. A Midlands resident for the past 25 years, he has been actively involved in the local 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 Chamber Board Chairman JB Beckett. “As a Chamber and community, we are grateful for the service and professionalism Tim James has brought to the position, and we know Tony is the right person to continue building upon those successes and serving our members.”
Tam said he looks forward to working with area businesses and community leaders.
“I am honored to join the Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce and serve the businesses and communities,” Tam said. “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.”
To help ensure a smooth transition, the Board of Directors has asked James to serve as a mentor during the onboarding process while Tam is introduced to Chamber members, stakeholders, and community partners.
The Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Programs represents more than 400 member businesses throughout Cayce, West Columbia, Springdale, South Congaree, and other areas of Lexington County. The organization serves as a voice for business and tourism through advocacy, networking opportunities, leadership development, and economic growth initiatives.
Throughout his career, Tam has held numerous leadership positions, including chairman of the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association Executive Board, chairman of the Midlands Authority for Conventions, Sports and Tourism, known today as Experience Columbia, and president of the Columbia Hotel and Motel Association.
His community involvement has also included service on the South Carolina Tourism Expenditure Review Committee, the Columbia Urban League Board of Directors, the University of South Carolina Educational Foundation Board of Directors, local hospitality and accommodations tax committees, and a variety of civic and community organizations.
Tam is a graduate of Furman University’s Riley Institute Diversity Leaders Initiative and was recognized as the University of South Carolina Upstate’s 2025 Alumni of the Year.
Chamber officials said Tam’s extensive experience in tourism, hospitality, and community leadership makes him well-positioned to guide the organization into its next chapter while continuing to serve as an advocate for businesses throughout the region.
