Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce President and Chief Executive Officer Karen Brown has announced she will be retiring at the end of May 2026.
“My time at the Outer Banks Chamber has been the highlight of my 25-year Chamber of Commerce career and I know the future is bright for this outstanding organization,” Brown said in a press release.
Prior to being named the head of the OBX Chamber in 2012, Brown served over three years as President and CEO of the Pike County, Georgia Chamber of Commerce and executive director of the Development Authority of Pike County.
A native of coastal southern New Jersey, Brown also spent seven years of experience as a senior executive-level team member of the Bonita Springs, Florida, Chamber of Commerce.
“The Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce truly appreciates Karen’s commitment and leadership over the past 12 years,” said Nick Graham, OBX Chamber Chairman of the Board.
“We wish her nothing but happiness as she looks forward to enjoying a quiet and simple life in retirement with her husband, Jim and dog, Brody,” Graham said. “All of us are extremely happy for Karen and her new chapter but will miss her hard work and dedication.”
“The Chamber membership can rest assured that we will continue to offer all our planned programming, and it will be business as usual as we navigate this transition;” said Chair-Elect Melissa Harrison. “Karen’s continued commitment to the Chamber and its success are very much welcome and appreciated.”
Graham and Harrison will develop a plan for finding Brown’s replacement that includes creation of a Search Committe, and present it to the full board in June.
“While this is a bittersweet time for me, I am looking forward to assisting with plans for a successful transition in mid-2026,” Brown said.
