Cookeville Chamber President/CEO Search Opens

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – The Cookeville-Putnam County Chamber of Commerce is beginning the search for its next President/CEO. The search comes following the February announcement of current President/CEO George Halford’s retirement at the conclusion of 2019. Halford, a 47-year chamber professional, has served the Cookeville-Putnam County community and surrounding region for 16 years as the chief executive.

The position is responsible for the overall operation of the organization, including the Cookeville-Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, Highlands Economic Partnership and its Economic Development and Workforce Development and Education programs, Highlands Foundation, Public Building Authority, Leadership Putnam, and the Cookeville-Putnam County Visitors’ Bureau. The President/CEO will guide the staff and lead the organization’s programs of work with accountability to the 24-member Board of Directors for overall performance.  He/she is expected to provide leadership and direction that creates high levels of enthusiasm, expectancy, momentum and pride among the membership, staff and business community.

An outstanding opportunity for an experienced executive, the next President/CEO should be a creative, visionary leader. The successful candidate must be a skilled communicator and team builder who can lead, inspire, and manage staff, as well as build positive relationships with the board of directors, volunteers, members, and community and governmental leaders. As a highly visible leadership position within the community, the incoming executive will have significant influence on the continued positive growth and development of the city, county, and region in the years to come.

While a bachelor’s degree is a required qualification, preferred experience includes seven or more years with chambers of commerce or economic development organizations, Certified Chamber Executive and/or Certified Economic Developer certifications, successful completion of the Institute for Organization Management and/or Economic Development Institute, and proven leadership in the successful recruitment of targeted economic sectors.