The board voted unanimously to appoint Keith Hartman to the position at Grant Holmes resigned in November.
Hartman served on the Chamber board of directors and on the Executive Team since July, bringing a wide skill set to this role. “Keith has had leadership experience with both small and large businesses throughout his career, including over five years with an international leader in peer advisory and leadership development for CEOs and senior leaders of small to mid-size businesses,” the board said in a statement.
After relocating to Roanoke, Hartman led the Roanoke Region Small Business Development Center, RR SBDC, where he worked with business owners and community leaders throughout the eight-county coverage area. While there, he established and enhanced relationships with stakeholders and investment partners, opened auxiliary offices for the RR SBDC in the New River Valley, brought a full-time business advisor on board to serve the NRV area and implemented a grant in support of tourism for Botetourt County, the statement read.
Since retiring from the RR SBDC, Hartman has been active not only with the Chamber, but also has volunteered on several regional committees focused on economic development and access to capital.
While in this interim role, Hartman will work with current Chamber employees and members.
“The board appreciates the willingness of Mr. Hartman to take on this role and looks forward to the leadership he will bring as the search for a full-time executive director proceeds,” the statement read.
