After nine years at the helm, Bremerton Chamber of Commerce Director Silvia Klatman is resigning to pursue new endeavors.

In January, she will begin working in public affairs at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center in Keyport.

“It’s something I’ve really developed a passion for,” she said. “It is similar to my work at the chamber and uses similar skills.”

Klatman, who made the announcement Tuesday, has been involved with the chamber for 23 years. Before becoming executive director in August 2000, she worked as operations manager and as a part of the chamber’s economic development council. She also was as a representative to the chamber during her time working with an office equipment business.

She tried to change the chamber’s image to make it more welcoming and to present a unified voice for the business community. Her efforts were focused regionally and with larger organizations.

“We tried to be more light-hearted and it really showed in the attendance at our chamber events,” she said.

Chamber president Steve Green, of the Land Title Company, commended Klatman for her time heading the chamber.

“We’ve enjoyed working with Silvia and are pleased that she has an opportunity to further her career,” he said in a news release. “We wish her all the best in her new position.”

Resumés for the new chamber director will be accepted from Jan. 4-15.

“It’s been quite an exciting and fun-filled opportunity,” she said. “Business people are good people and creative. I like them.”