The head of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce plans to retire at the end of this year.

“This decision was neither easy nor quick,” said Jim Heeter, the chamber’s CEO and president.  “But I’ve come to a point in my life where I’d like the flexibility to spend more time with my wife and family – particularly my awesome grandchildren! While I love the role I’ve played and the many wonderful people with whom I’ve worked, I’m looking forward to this new chapter of my life.”

Heeter has led the chamber since April 2010. He was previously the managing partner of the Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal law firm’s Kansas City office. He has been active in several civic roles, including service on the Kansas City City Council. He is a past president of the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association.

At the Chamber, Heeter spearheaded the Big 5 initiative and helped campaign for the renewal of Kansas City’s earnings tax.

Heeter will be part of the search for his replacement. Terry Bassham, president and CEO of Great Plains Energy, will help oversee the process as the chamber’s incoming chair.

“As one who has recently made a similar transition, I completely understand Jim’s decision,” said Terry Dunn, the chamber’s current chair. “He has been an exceptional leader for both the chamber and the Kansas City region.