Carla Valenzuela

CEO OF Costa Mesa CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

Carla Valenzuela is the new president and chief executive officer of the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce.  Eagerly stepping into this leadership role during the COVID-19 pandemic, she is fully committed to being proactive and providing businesses with the valuable resources to help the business community to rebuild and thrive once again.  

Given her professional record and key experience of over 25 years in the subjects of strategic planning, program development, marketing, public/media relations, high-profile event planning/fundraising, and community/government relations, her goal is to make a strong contribution in delivering business results that will make the Costa Mesa community a better and more successful place.  She is passionate, dedicated, and tenacious when leading and participating in community-wide initiatives.  Together, with her team, she aims to show leadership in the creation of successful, innovative programs that will fuel the expansion of her business-client relationships.  She is a big supporter of community cultivation and engagement and serving as a true advocate with the city stakeholders.  

Carla also served as the first-ever Executive Director at the Chula Vista Police Foundation.  In addition, she was also associated with South Coast Global Medical Center (formerly known as Coastal Communities Medical Center) where she provided business development leadership for six years.  Her knowledge and innovative style led to the development and implementation of new hospital programs, enhancing existing services, and the successful formation of strategic community and business partnerships.

Over the years, Ms. Valenzuela has served as a member of several professional and community organizations.  She has also served on several boards representing Federally Qualified Healthcare Centers (FQHCs).  Most recently, she was appointed to the Travel Costa Mesa Board as an Advisor. 

Ms. Valenzuela is a graduate of University of La Verne where she majored in Health Care Administration.

When not working, Carla enjoys running, going on hikes, and volunteering.