The chairman of the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce announced the departure Friday of Lois Bauccio and the elimination of her position.

Bauccio, who previously ran the local Child and Family Center, was hired in September to serve as president and chief executive officer of the chamber.

In a letter to chamber members Friday afternoon, board chairman John Musella said:

“I am writing to let you know the Executive Committee of the Chamber has unanimously taken the step to eliminate, effective immediately, the position of President and CEO.  This step was necessary to further reduce overhead expenses to better manage the chamber’s finances and to continue to provide services to our members.

“This was a very difficult decision, but a necessary one.  Many of us have known Lois Bauccio for years and consider her a friend.  She has been a tremendous asset to our community and we will miss her involvement at the Chamber.  To say we are heartbroken, is an understatement.

“The Executive Committee has begun managing the Chamber with the remaining Chamber staff while the reorganization process continues.

“We want our members, friends and supporters to know that we are working to build a better, stronger Chamber of Commerce.  Our core programs, services and events will continue uninterrupted.”