Congratulations on your new role as Executive Director/President/CEO of your Chamber of Commerce! You’re stepping into one of the most dynamic and rewarding positions in the business world. And you’ll likely wear a lot of hats. Some will fit comfortably. Some will be a little snug. Some may even seem absurd.
You are now heading a network that connects businesses, builds communities, and advocates for economic growth. That’s not just a job—it’s a mission. And it’s one you don’t have to navigate alone.
The next 60 days will be formative. They’re your opportunity to lay the foundation for long-term success—for your chamber, your community, and yourself. Below is a guide infused with advice from experienced chamber professionals across the country who’ve been where you are. Their words of wisdom are empowering, practical, and honest.
1. Begin with Listening—Lots of It
Your first job isn’t to fix anything—it’s to listen. Start a listening tour. Meet with each board member one-on-one. Ask why they serve, what they think success looks like, and how they want to help. Do the same with members—especially those who seem disengaged. What would help them feel more connected? What do they need to thrive?
As Nancy Olson, CEO of the Greater Eureka Chamber of Commerce put it, “Even if you think you know what people will say—listen anyway.”
You’ll gain insights, uncover unmet needs, and show people that their voice matters under your leadership.
2. Get Clear on the Mission and Metrics
You’ll hear a lot of ideas and requests. Before you act, take a step back and align your efforts with a clear mission. Review your bylaws, budget, board meeting minutes, and existing strategic plans. If there’s no plan—or it’s outdated—this is your chance to shape one with your board.
Frank Kenny advises updating your strategic plan early. “Get everyone to agree on what the goals are, what success looks like, and what you, the committees, and the board need to be working on.” This helps ensure everyone is on the same path to success.
Kelly Rose Hall recommends starting with Simon Sinek’s “WHY.” Help your board define not just what your chamber does, but why it exists. That clarity will align your work and decisions in the months to come and it enlivens people to feel more fulfilled.
3. Relationships First, Always
This job isn’t done behind a desk. It’s done in coffee shops, ribbon cuttings, and community events. Get out of the office. Be visible. Be approachable. Be the face of the chamber.
Jackie Ellerbrock from the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce reminds us, “Your relationships are your greatest currency—especially early on.” Start by nurturing your top 10 connectors. These are the influencers who can open doors, make introductions, and help carry your message.
And don’t forget to find your own inner circle. Joey O’Hern swears by finding a mentor. Tina Thompson, President & CEO of the Tomah Chamber and Visitor’s Center recommends having a trusted advisor—someone who can tell you when you’re wrong, not just when you’re right.
4. Establish Healthy Boundaries and Expectations
You’re not expected to fix everything overnight—or do everything alone. Set boundaries from the beginning to protect your time, energy, and mental well-being. When you say “yes” to something, you’re blocking time for it and indirectly saying “no” to something else. Make sure you’re all in on your yesses.
Ellie Van Doornum from the Habersham County Chamber of Commerce wisely advises: “It’s okay to say no to take care of yourself. Burnout is a real thing in this business.”
Equally important is managing expectations—yours and others’. Aaron Nelson, Executive Director at St. Maries Chamber of Commerce encourages new leaders: “Don’t tell people what you think you are going to do. Just start doing it.” Avoid setting lofty public promises before you’ve seen the landscape.
Focus on high-return efforts—retention, member value, visibility. The wishlist can wait.
5. Build Simple Systems
Even if you’re a one-person shop, your work deserves structure. Document your processes for membership renewals, event planning, sponsorship tracking, and communications.
Jackie Ellerbrock recommends creating standard operating procedures (SOPs) right away. “Your future self—and eventual hires—will thank you.” (Side note: knowing these types of things can help you with AI implementation as well because it not only gives the AI context to what you do and how you do it but it also will shine the light on ways that you can implement an AI tool for greater efficiencies. If you don’t have standard processes, it’s hard to see where it can help.)
SOPs don’t have to be complicated, just repeatable.
6. Empower Your Board and Volunteers
You are not an island. Your board and volunteers are here for a reason. Set expectations, define roles, and inspire them to be active participants in your chamber’s success.
Jackie recommends identifying 2–3 reliable volunteers to lead events or task forces. Set them up for success. Share the load. Celebrate their wins. As Chamber pro Joy Grady humorously advises: “Always keep a volunteer between yourself and… anything.”
7. Communicate Like a Pro
People trust what they hear often—from you. Be present at events, in the media, and especially online. Share your journey, your goals, and the chamber’s story. Position yourself as a leader who’s not only visible but approachable.
Mason Hutton, Executive Director of the Huber Heights Chamber of Commerce, encourages connecting with your business community as soon as you’re hired. Let them know who you are, what you stand for, and how to reach you.
8. Find Your Chamber Tribe
You’re not in this alone. Join your state chamber association, ACCE, and regional chamber networks. Attend Institute for Organization Management or your state’s leadership academy. Become a part of the Chamber Pros Facebook group.
You’ll learn the mechanics of chamber work—but more importantly, you’ll find your people. The ones who get it. Who’ve had the same hard conversations. Who know what it’s like to lead when nobody else sees the pressure.
As Joey O’Hern says, “Find your people.”
9. Celebrate the Wins
You’re going to work hard. Some days will feel like an uphill climb in high heels through pouring rain, snow, and sleet with pirañas nipping at your ankles. But don’t wait for a gala, ribbon cutting, or the completion of a big project to celebrate.
Tina Thompson reminds us to “celebrate even the smallest of wins, especially when it doesn’t seem like things are going well.”
A new member joined? Celebrate. A member renewed after years away? Celebrate. You got through your first board meeting with confidence? That’s a win. Celebration needn’t involve noise makers and cake (although, why not?). It can just be enjoying a quiet moment where you congratulate yourself (and/or your team). Bathe in the good feeling of accomplishing something you weren’t sure would happen.
10. Lead with Purpose and Grace
Above all—lead. With humility. With clarity. With purpose.
As Erica Martinez says, “Set the example of a humble yet servitude and focused leader that will inspire others to follow your leadership and want to be on your team.”
Know your “why,” stay grounded in it, and lead from it.
Final Thoughts
The first 60 days as a Chamber leader aren’t about proving you’re perfect or a super hero. They’re about showing up—curious, courageous, and committed. You don’t have to (nor should you) do everything at once. You don’t have to please everyone.
But if you lead with integrity, listen deeply, and build relationships intentionally, you will lay the foundation for something remarkable.
