The Transition Committee overseeing the merger between the Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership (TSEP) and the Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce has announced the hiring of Bryce Riggs as the first President & CEO of the soon-to-be unified organization.
This hiring follows the signing of a formal Memorandum of Understanding by both executive boards earlier this year and a unanimous vote in February 2025 to merge the two organizations. The merger will align services across business advocacy, economic development, tourism, community development, and downtown revitalization under one structure aimed at making Seneca County the best place to live, work, play, and visit.
Riggs was selected following a competitive search process led by the Transition Committee, which includes the Chair and Vice Chair of both the Chamber and TSEP boards.
“Bryce brings the collaborative leadership, deep community knowledge, and strategic mindset we need,” said Chip VanDette, Chair of the TSEP Board and Transition Committee member. “His track record, relationships, and forward-thinking approach will help us deliver results across the county.”
Riggs has served as Executive Director of the Chamber and Destination Seneca County since July 2020, and as Interim President & CEO of TSEP since December 2024.
“Bryce is a proven leader who has already made a tremendous impact,” said Ashley Helmstetter, Chair of the Chamber Board and Transition Committee member. “He’s built trust across sectors, grown membership, secured long-term partnerships, and brought positive visibility to Seneca County. We’re excited for the future.”
During Riggs’ tenure, Chamber membership has increased by 70 percent. He was recently honored with the Michael A. Schultz Professional of the Year Award by the Chamber Professionals of Ohio, recognizing his leadership in advocacy, member engagement, and strategic innovation. Under his leadership, Destination Seneca County has expanded its tourism efforts, earned 11 statewide awards, and launched high-impact initiatives such as Elope at the Eclipse, which gained national media attention and helped position Seneca County as a destination of choice.
“This organization is being built to serve Seneca County in bold, collaborative ways,” said Riggs. “I’m honored to lead this next chapter and incredibly proud of the team around me. Together, we’re going to keep building something that lasts — something that delivers real value for our businesses, communities, and future.”
Details regarding the new organization’s name, governance, and structure will be announced in the coming months, with the official merger expected to be finalized by the end of the year.
