Charleston Reporter

The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce's Board of Directors has initiated the search for a new President and Chief Executive Officer. Waverly Partners, an executive search firm known for serving chambers and economic development organizations nationwide, has been retained to assist in this process.

Bryan Derreberry, who has led the Chamber for over 13 years, recently announced his retirement plans, which will take effect once a successor is appointed. The Chamber Board is conducting a national search to find a new CEO to guide the organization forward.

A selection committee led by Matt Brewer, current Chamber Board Chair, has been established. This committee will collaborate with Waverly Partners to identify qualified candidates from local, regional, and national pools. Brewer stated: “The selection committee has developed a position profile for the Chamber’s new CEO that includes thoughtful input from a broad array of community stakeholders including business leaders, non-profits, government officials and Chamber staff. Our committee is confident that we will attract a quality pool of candidates that bring the experience and leadership characteristics desired in the next CEO.” He added that they are open to executives with diverse backgrounds including chambers of commerce, economic development, business associations, nonprofits, private sector or related experience.

Elizabeth Burwell from Southern First Bank expressed optimism about the future: “Bryan’s leadership has poised the Chamber for a strong future. We are excited for this opportunity to identify a visionary leader who can continue to foster collaboration, advocate for our members and advance a thriving business community.”

A summary of the CEO position can be found on the Chamber’s website at charlestonchamber.org/CEOSearch. For more information or to express interest in the position or make recommendations, contact Waverly Partners consultants Eric Peterson and Debbie Galbraith at Charleston@Waverly-Partners.com; all inquiries will be kept confidential.