Charleston Metro Chamber President and CEO announces retirement
August 22, 2024
The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce announced President and CEO Bryan Derreberry will retire at the end of 2024 after a distinguished 13-year tenure leading the organization.
Under Derreberry’s leadership, the Chamber transformed into a leading advocacy organization and was recognized as the 2018 Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.
“After 13 remarkable years leading the Charleston Metro Chamber and 39 years in the profession, I’m proud of our achievements,” said Bryan Derreberry, President and CEO of the Charleston Metro Chamber. “We’ve become a national leader, celebrated our 250th anniversary and are charting our region’s future through People First. It’s been an honor serving our community.”
Prior to joining the Charleston Metro Chamber, Bryan was president and CEO of the Wichita Metro Chamber of Commerce in Wichita, Kansas, where he directed the state’s largest metro chamber for over seven years. He also served as President and CEO of the Catawba County, North Carolina and Middletown Area, Ohio chambers of commerce respectively. Bryan began his chamber career as the state lobbyist for the Greater Cincinnati (Ohio) Chamber of Commerce.
“Bryan’s strategic vision and unwavering commitment to advancing the Charleston region have been instrumental in the Chamber’s success and that of our community,” said Matt Brewer, Chair of the Charleston Metro Chamber Board of Directors and President and CEO of Choate Construction Company. “His leadership has been steadfast and he has built a remarkable, mission-driven team. We are extremely grateful for his contributions.”
To ensure a smooth leadership transition, the Chamber has retained Waverly Partners to conduct a nationwide search for a new President and CEO. Matt Brewer will serve as the Chair of a 12-member Selection Committee. Committee members represent a cross section of former Chamber Board Chairs, investors and community leaders.
“We are confident that the Selection Committee will identify an exceptional leader to guide the Chamber into its next chapter,” said Brewer. “Given the Chamber’s strong foundation and the region’s vibrant economy, we anticipate attracting a robust pool of highly qualified candidates.”
The Chamber is excited to build upon its momentum with the launch of the People First movement, which focuses on long-term economic mobility and quality of life solutions for all residents within our region. The incoming President and CEO will play a pivotal role in advancing this strategic vision.
“Bryan’s exceptional leadership has propelled the Chamber to unprecedented growth, ensuring that we are primed to excel in our next chapter. I am grateful for his dedication to our Chamber, region and state,” said Elizabeth Burwell, Senior Vice President for Southern First and Incoming Board Chair for the Chamber. “We wish Bryan and his family the very best in their next season.”
The search for a new President and CEO will begin in September, with the goal of selecting a new leader by year-end. Derreberry will remain in his role until December 31, 2024.
About the Charleston Metro Chamber
With approximately 1,600 member organizations representing 160,000 professionals, the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce serves as the collective voice of the business community, and a catalyst for regional economic advancement and member success through Government Relations, DE&I, Leadership, Membership and Workforce & Education platforms. Visit charlestonchamber.org.
