Amber Batchelor, a veteran CEO, and strategic alignment expert has been appointed as the CEO of Georgia’s Chamber of Commerce, making her the first black person to occupy the position. Batchelor was selected after an extensive national search lasting four months.
The HBCU graduate comes into the position with vast experience working in Silicon Valley and Florida supporting businesses, municipalities, and non-profits with more than 17 years of engagement in the chamber industry.
“Amber brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from business, past Chambers of Commerce, and non-profit organizations and board roles. We look forward to her leadership, ideas, and energy to continue the successful 100-year legacy of the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce,” said Brandi Lunneborg, Board Chair.
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In a statement, Batchelor said, “I have a deep family history in southwest Georgia, and I consider it my sincere honor to be selected to serve as President and CEO of the Sumter County Chamber and reconnect with this hardworking historic community.”
“Over the last 20 years, I have had the privilege of working in corporate and nonprofit spaces across the country, supporting small business owners, manufacturers, community partners, and more. In every position, I have been dedicated to put community and collaboration at the forefront of keeping people and hometown needs first.”
Batchelor is a graduate of Saint Augustine’s University in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and a minor in International Studies. She also enrolled in George Washington University Graduate School of Political Management while working at US Congress on Capitol Hill in Washington DC, according to Blacknews.
She served as Women’s Business Center Director when she joined weVENTURE Women’s Business Center at Florida Tech’s Bisk College of Business. She also worked with the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) to manage and administer grants to small businesses, while providing mentorship to aspiring entrepreneurs.
When the pandemic hit the US economy, Batchelor worked with the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) to manage and administer grants to help business owners stay afloat during the troubling time.
She also managed a side business and served as the Founder, CEO, and Managing Partner of her boutique consulting firm, Batchelor & Bradley Insights Group. She named the firm after her grandparents, whose ancestors were slaves and ultimately sharecroppers near Sumter County, Georgia.
