Her background includes working for Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, being chief executive for six years at Te Puia, and owning her own business. She also has a has a MBA from the University of Waikato.
Being female and Maori in such a role was a wonderful opportunity, Mrs Lawton said.
"This is especially with Rotorua becoming a bilingual city on Friday, there is an opportunity for the chamber to play a part."
She said it was great more women were visible in leadership roles than when she was chief executive at Te Puia 15 years ago.
"Looking back, it was scary and pretty lonely. Now there are wonderful networks for women in Rotorua, and I enjoy the role chamber plays a part in this."
She said one such example was a women's networking function held at the Millennium hotel in association with the hotel and Maori in Tourism Rotorua.
Mrs Lawton said she has a competitive spirit.
"I believe you have to, to allow you to drive and succeed, and get things done."
She said she was well-supported by Chamber of Commerce president John McRae, board and staff.
"They are all really supportive and have a passionate vision for the city."
Mr McRae said he was impressed with the strategic skills Mrs Lawton brought to the role, and the momentum the chamber has achieved in a small amount of time under her leadership.
