Charlene Rosales is leaving the United Way and going to the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce, where she will become director of governmental affairs.

Her job will focus on leading the chamber's legislative efforts, an endeavor that includes representing issues that affect the business community to city, county and state governments.

Rosales spent eight and a half years with United Way of San Luis Obispo County, the past five of them as chief operating officer.

During her time there, she “played a key role in establishing new programs and fundraising activities, led the implementation of United Way's brand strategy, and improved the operational efficiency of the organization,” according to a news release from the Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber leaders expressed delight at the prospect of Rosales coming aboard.

“Charlene brings a wealth of community leadership, deep relationships and local understanding to represent the local business community," said Ermina Karim, president and CEO.

“Her experience in the nonprofit sector along with her depth of business knowledge and of the legislative workings in the county and state will serve as a huge benefit to our members,” Karim said.

In addition to her work with United Way, Rosales served three terms as chair of the San Luis Obispo Human Relations Commission and was a member of the city's economic development strategic plan steering committee.

She also served as a legislative ambassador for the American Cancer Society, and served on the boards of the SLO County YMCA and the Rotary Club of San Luis Obispo Daybreak. She has been active with many other organizations.

Rosales is no stranger to the chamber. She served two terms on its board of directors and two terms on its executive committee, served as chair of its evaluation committee, and has been an active member of the chamber's legislative committees.

Rosales, who succeeds Courtney Kienow, will begin work at the end of February.