Allan Zaremberg, CalChamber President and CEO from 1998–2021, passed away earlier today after dealing with a series of recent health challenges.
CalChamber President and CEO Jennifer Barrera issued the following statement:
“Allan was not only the leader of California’s business community for decades, he was a friend and mentor to hundreds of people in the Capitol community. Allan’s strategic mind and high standards set a great example for us all, yet throughout his career he remained humble and approachable. He was a leader who genuinely cared about people — whether you were on the same side of a political issue or not. He was known for his ability to work effectively across party lines and maintained strong relationships with governors and legislative leaders of both parties throughout his career.
”At CalChamber, we remember Allan with both respect and fondness. Allan had integrity and was authentic. He never missed a chance to ask how your day was going, learn about what was happening with your family or offer a restaurant recommendation. He made big sacrifices for the well-being of CalChamber, our staff, and the members he represented. We are grateful to have had him as our leader for so many years. Our sympathies go out to Allan’s wife and his entire family,” said Barrera.
CalChamber Board Chair Greg Bielli (president and CEO of Tejon Ranch) offered the following comment:
“Allan provided an exceptional level of leadership for the business community and all Californians while at the helm of CalChamber. He was a strong voice for common-sense policies that provided the basis for economic development in the state to benefit every resident of California. Today, we remember him not only for the great things he accomplished on behalf of California employers and employees, but the way in which he treated others throughout his career. Even though Allan had his professional stature, his roles of a family man and friend to many of us will be his true long-lasting legacy,” said Bielli.
In August 2021, upon announcing his retirement, Zaremberg commented that he was honored to have had the opportunity to serve the members and directors of CalChamber for so many years. Said Zaremberg, “It has been an honor and a privilege to be part of California’s business and political development, working with California’s business leaders to establish a strategic plan for economic success.”
Zaremberg served in the role of president and CEO of CalChamber for 23 years beginning in 1998 after six years as executive vice president and head of CalChamber’s legislative advocacy program. Before joining CalChamber, Zaremberg served as chief legislative advisor to and advocate for Governors George Deukmejian and Pete Wilson. He also served as a captain and flight navigator on a KC-135 jet air refueling tanker while in the U.S. Air Force from 1970 to 1975.
Allan is survived by his wife Karen, their son Adam, a grandson, and his sister Darlene.
The California Chamber of Commerce (CalChamber) is the largest broad-based business advocate to government in California. Membership represents one-quarter of the private sector jobs in California and includes firms of all sizes and companies from every industry within the state. Leveraging our front-line knowledge of laws and regulations, we provide products and services to help businesses comply with both federal and state law. CalChamber, a not-for-profit organization with roots dating to 1890, promotes international trade and investment in order to stimulate California’s economy and create jobs. Please visit our website at www.calchamber.com
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