Carol Knight appointed new chief executive officer of both Encinitas Chamber of Commerce and Visit Encinitas

The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce recently announced the appointment of Carol Knight as its new chief executive officer of both the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce and Visit Encinitas, effective Nov. 1, 2025. She succeeds outgoing CEO Sherry Yardley, who will continue supporting the organization in an advisory role through the end of the year, according to a news release.

Knight, a seasoned professional with more than 35 years of experience in communications, strategic planning, and business development, has been a driving force at the Chamber since 2021 as community relations & membership director and director of Visit Encinitas, the news release stated. In those roles, she spearheaded community engagement and tourism initiatives, cultivated key partnerships with city leaders and regional organizations, and managed some of the chamber’s signature events, including Oktoberfest, the State of the City, and the chamber’s educational initiatives including Rising Star and Salute to Education.

She has also been a steadfast advocate for local businesses of all sizes, helping members navigate challenges, grow their networks, and showcase their services to the wider community, the news release stated.

“Carol has been instrumental in enhancing the chamber’s role in the community, building strong relationships with our members, and in advancing our tourism initiative, Visit Encinitas,” said Richard Marks, chair of the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “Her vision, energy, and proven leadership make her the ideal person to guide the chamber into its next chapter.”

Prior to her work with the chamber, Knight held senior communications and public relations roles for organizations including Hasbro, The Upper Deck Company, Microsoft Games, The Frame Shop and CK Communications. She has managed multimillion-dollar campaigns, led large teams, and overseen high-profile events such as the American International Toy Fair, Comic-Con International and Star Wars Celebration.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Knight is deeply engaged in the community. She currently serves as vice president of the Olivenhain Town Council and has been an active advocate for business growth and cultural tourism throughout North County.

“I am honored to serve as CEO of the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce and Visit Encinitas,” said Knight in the news release. “Encinitas is a vibrant community with a unique blend of entrepreneurs, small businesses, and cultural experiences. I look forward to continuing the chamber’s mission of supporting our businesses, promoting economic vitality, strengthening our partnerships and celebrating all that makes Encinitas special.”

The chamber also recognized the contributions of outgoing CEO Sherry Yardley, who previously served on the board of directors and has led the organization since March 2020. Yardley guided the chamber through the unprecedented challenges of COVID-19, supporting local businesses with resources and advocacy during a critical juncture. In 2022, she was named one of the San Diego Business Journal’s “Top 50 Women of Influence Over 50,” honoring her leadership and impact. A longtime community leader and consultant, Yardley has dedicated more than 30 years to strengthening North County nonprofits, local events, and charitable organizations, the news release stated.

After completing her service at the Encinitas Chamber and Visit Encinitas, Yardley will return her focus to her business operations consulting firm, Yardley Enterprises, which specializes in streamlining organizations, individuals, and events.

“We are deeply grateful to Sherry for her steady leadership and tireless commitment to the chamber and the Encinitas community,” added Marks in the news release. “Her legacy of service and resilience will continue to inspire our work.”