Returning with fresh perspective

By Josh Cross, President/CEO at Atascadero Chamber of Commerce · Thu Sep 03 2026

Sometimes the best way to move forward is to take a moment to step back

Earlier this summer, I was fortunate to be granted a five-week sabbatical by the Atascadero Chamber Board of Directors. I recognize that this is a benefit not available in every workplace, and I am sincerely grateful to our Board for investing in both my professional growth and the long-term success of our organization.

The time away allowed me to recharge, spend meaningful time with my family, and attend the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Annual Convention, where Chamber leaders from across the country gathered to share ideas and discuss the future of our profession.

The greatest lesson, however, came from what happened while I was away.

The Chamber continued moving forward.

Our staff supported one another, solved challenges, and continued serving our members with professionalism and enthusiasm. Watching that unfold reinforced something we have intentionally built over the past five years: an organization that is bigger than any one person. That is a testament to an exceptional team and a Board that believes in empowering people to lead.

The experience also gave me time to reflect on what success really looks like for a Chamber of Commerce. While it's easy to measure events, memberships, and programs, our greatest impact often happens quietly when a business owner finds a solution to a challenge, makes a valuable connection, hires an employee, or feels more supported because someone was there to help.

To me, that's what healthy leadership looks like. Success isn't measured by whether an organization depends on one individual. It's measured by whether people are empowered to lead, make decisions, and continue moving the mission forward together.

Those moments don't always show up on a spreadsheet, but they are the reason we exist.

The ACCE Convention introduced me to innovative ideas from communities across the country, yet it also confirmed something I have long believed. Every community is different. The strongest organizations don't try to become someone else. They build on what already makes their community special.

For Atascadero, that means continuing to strengthen local businesses, advocating for smart solutions, investing in workforce development, building meaningful partnerships, and preserving the collaborative spirit that has become one of our community's greatest strengths.

I returned with renewed energy, fresh perspective, and an even greater appreciation for this community. Thank you to our Board of Directors, our outstanding staff, and our members for the trust you place in the Chamber every day.

If you're an employer or organizational leader interested in exploring how a sabbatical program could benefit your workplace, I'd be happy to share the Chamber's experience and provide a copy of our policy. Feel free to reach out to me at josh@atascaderochamber.org.

I'm excited to be back, and even more excited about what lies ahead for Atascadero.

Upcoming Events

Thursday, September 17

North County Chamber Mixer at The Anderson

Wednesday, September 23

Women of Influence North County

Friday, September 25

Sip & Shop