Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce selects new President

The Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors today announced that Karen S. Brown of Georgia has been named President and Chief Executive Officer of the organization. She will take office Oct. 1 to fill a position vacant by the retirement of John Bone, who served the organization for 29 years.

Karen brings 10 years of Chamber of Commerce experience including more than three years as the President/CEO of the Pike County, Georgia, Chamber of Commerce and the Executive Director of the Development Authority of Pike County.  She also has more than seven years’ experience as a senior executive-level team member of the Bonita Springs, Florida, Chamber of Commerce.   

“It has been a pleasure getting to know Karen and we are very delighted to have her join our organization,” said Chamber Board Chair and Search Committee Member Robin Mann.  “Her professionalism and charismatic personality, coupled with her knowledge, organizational skills, experience, and passion for the small business community, will be a great addition to our organization.”

Karen is a 2005 graduate of the U.S. Chamber Institute for Organization Management program (IOM), as well as a graduate of the Oklahoma University Economic Development Institute.  In addition, Karen holds a bachelor of science degree in business management from Western Governors University, and she is currently pursuing her MBA in Management and Strategy. Prior to her time with chambers, she was a supervising claim approver with Prudential/Aetna Healthcare.  Karen was raised in southern coastal New Jersey and still has family in that area. 

“The Chamber Search Committee went through a very thorough search process, which resulted in an excellent slate of candidates,” added Ralph Buxton, Chair of the Search Committee. “Karen impressed us with her experience, her communication skills, and her passion for Chamber of Commerce work. She is excited to get back to a coastal community and we are delighted to have her!”

Brown will be formally introduced to the Chamber membership at the annual meeting and awards dinner on Oct. 11 at the Ramada Plaza in Kill Devil Hills. Chamber members are also encouraged to stop by the chamber office or call 252-441-8144 to welcome Brown after her arrival in October.

“This is an exciting and rewarding time to be part of the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce, “ said Ali Breaux, Chair-Elect and Search Committee Member. “Our Chamber is a highly respected organization with a reputation for excellence in leadership, innovation and success. Our new CEO has demonstrated the ability to continue our legacy of excellence. She brings experience, education, skill and enthusiasm to her new position. We’re looking forward to great things from her and I am confident that she will impress our membership and our business community.”

Brown says she is excited about this new venture, and being part of the Outer Banks community.  She also looks forward to working with the staff and membership.

“The Outer Banks is truly a special place; being on the ocean and enjoying the quality of life that comes along with this setting greatly appeals to every one of my senses,” said Brown. “The chamber’s commitment to the community and its members is evident.  I enjoyed meeting the board of directors and the staff.  You all are wonderful ambassadors for not only the chamber but also the entire Outer Banks area.  Becoming a part of the future of the area is something I am excited to embrace.” 

The Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit business membership organization with more than 1,016 members in Dare, Currituck and Hyde counties. The five-member staff works under the direction of a 20-member board of director’s representative of the diverse membership. For additional information about the chamber and its services, visit www.outerbankschamber.com, stop by the office at 101 Town Hall Drive (Colington Road) in Kill Devil Hills, or call 252-441-8144.