Meet the Staff
Mike serves at the pleasure of the Board of Directors, and manages the Staff and the operations of the office, with the mission of providing the most value possible to our members and the business community. Mike grew up in Palo Alto, CA until he headed South to attend San Diego State University. After falling in love with San Diego and graduating SDSU, Mike grew roots in SD. Mike and his wife Lisa of over 32 years have been residents of Poway since March of 1997, and have two children, David (27) and Lauren (25). The Leland family also consists of a COVID rescue Buddy (a 5 year old Australian Cattle dog/German Shepherd mix).
Faire oversees all marketing and communications efforts for the Chamber, including managing social media, graphic design, press releases, e-blasts, e-newsletters, and more. Additionally, she plays a key role in event planning, member outreach, and general office administration. Originally from Poway, where she was born and raised, Faire is thrilled to be back living in her hometown. During her free time, she enjoys engaging in outdoor activities and coaching lacrosse at Rancho Bernardo High School. Faire is passionate about photography, videography, exploring nature, sailing, spending time at the beach, and playing with her beloved dogs: Rooney (a sporting dog mix) and Hazel (a miniature dachshund).
Rita serves as the Chamber’s Membership and Community Relationship Specialist, supporting member growth, retention, and engagement. She strengthens relationships within the Chamber and local community, and assists with events and administrative initiatives. Originally from Lithuania, Rita studied languages and now speaks five fluently. Her career journey has taken her to Spain, the Middle East, and ultimately to the United States a decade ago. Rita is a personable, driven professional with a talent for connecting people, products, and purpose. She understands client needs, offers practical solutions, and fosters relationships that turn customers into loyal advocates. Rita is recognized for her energy, communication skills, and genuine care for those she works with. Outside of work, Rita enjoys exploring new restaurants, traveling, and spending time with her five-year-old pug, Dexter, who has also visited Europe.
Lara joined the Chamber as an Events Specialist, providing strategic support for Chamber events with a focus on fostering authentic networking and meaningful in-person collaboration for members. She also contributes to Marketing, drawing on her background in photography and video production as needed. Born and raised in San Diego, Lara feels right at home in Poway with her cowgirl boot collection and love of horses and animals. She brings more than 20 years of technical event production experience at UC San Diego, along with a background as a documentary producer for research and events there. Her passions include photography, architecture, senior care, horses, and animal rescue.
Olivia is a Marketing and Membership intern for the Chamber and a student at Poway to Palomar Middle College. Born and raised in San Diego, she has a strong love of math with a background as a competitive dancer, a passion she continues to pursue alongside her academic and professional goals. Olivia is excited to explore opportunities in finance and marketing, eager to keep learning, and motivated to build meaningful experience in the business world.