Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Larry Mankin has been appointed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to the State of California’s Economic Strategy Panel. Mankin, 59, is one of 15 who will serve on the panel, the duties of which include examining the kinds of industries the State of California should focus on and ways to foster job growth. Panel members will meet throughout the state to discuss the kinds of programs and reforms that states and counties are experiencing, as well as meet with top economists. While Mankin applied for the position, Gena Grebitus, a deputy press secretary for Schwarzenegger, said, “First and foremost the governor appoints the most qualified individuals for the position. That’s the governor’s number one goal.” Since 2003, Mankin has headed the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce. He has previously headed the Salt Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, the Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Council Bluff Chamber of Commerce in Iowa. He got his start in 1979, serving as executive vice president for the Central Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce. At present, he is a member of the American Chamber of Commerce Executives and the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Alliance. Pam Ingram, chairman of the board for the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce, said that Mankin’s extensive background serving in chambers throughout the country contributed to his appointment to the state economic panel. “Larry’s been involved with chambers for a number of years,” she said. “He’s worked in a lot of different areas, including in Salt Lake City when the Olympics were there. He’s very familiar with chambers of commerce, with communities. Here, he stays connected with government dignitaries. I think his background in the community and his political involvement made him a shoo-in in for the job.” Ingram went on to say that she believes Mankin’s appointment will bring more awareness to the Santa Clarita Valley. “I think it’s great for the community,” she said. “I think it’s an honor for him to have been chosen.” A Republican, Mankin will have a term for four years. He may serve additional terms, however. His position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no salary.