Beyond the Role: What to Expect When You Become a Chamber CEO

For professionals in the Chamber industry, the path from staff member to CEO can feel both exciting and daunting. It’s a transition that requires not only a deep understanding of the industry but also a strong network and a resilient mindset. W.A.C.E. has become a crucial resource for many on this journey, providing the education, connections, and support needed to thrive in a leadership role.
​
We spoke with four Chamber leaders who recently made this significant leap. They shared their stories, insights, and how W.A.C.E. helped them navigate this pivotal career change.

The Power of Knowledge and Mentorship
All four leaders highlighted the importance of a well-rounded education and the guidance of experienced mentors. W.A.C.E. programs like the W.A.C.E. Academy and the Emerging Leaders Council are often the first step in this professional development.

Natalie Leighton, President & CEO, Yountville Chamber of Commerce

Natalie Leighton, President & CEO of the Yountville Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes how the W.A.C.E. Academy provided her with essential tools. "The Academy program was extremely helpful in providing me with best practices when it comes to management, finances, partnerships, etc.," she says. This foundational knowledge gave her the confidence to step into her new role.

---

David Key, President & CEO, Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau

David Key, President & CEO of the Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau, credits W.A.C.E. with inspiring him to see the Chamber world as a long-term career. He notes, "The well-rounded education deepened both my knowledge and my desire to learn." For David, the combination of the Annual Conference, the Emerging Leaders Council, and the Academy solidified his path to leadership.

---

---

Building Your "Cabinet" and Finding Your "Tribe"

While formal training is vital, the leaders agreed that the most significant benefit of W.A.C.E. is the powerful network it provides. This network acts as a support system, a sounding board, and a source of motivation.

Candace Carnahan, President/CEO, Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce

Candace Carnahan, President/CEO of the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce, affectionately refers to this network as her "tribe." She explains that this group of peers helped her through the self-doubt and "imposter syndrome" that often accompany a new CEO role. "Your friends don’t understand, your board doesn’t always understand... but your W.A.C.E. circle does," she shares. "They’ve been the ones to help me through everything from people management struggles to the occasional 'what in the world did I sign up for?' moments."

---

Jessica Penman, President & CEO, Truckee Chamber of Commerce

This sentiment is echoed by Jessica Penman, President & CEO of the Truckee Chamber of Commerce, who says, "I would not have felt ready to take on this role if it was not for W.A.C.E. ... It gave me a support system for when I felt like I was failing or when I didn't know something." Both Jessica and Candace recommend building a "cabinet" of trusted peers—truth-tellers who will both cheer you on and provide honest feedback.

---

---

The Unexpected Challenges of Leadership

The transition to CEO isn't without its challenges. The leaders all spoke about the difficulty of "turning it off," a sentiment that might surprise those outside the industry.

As Candace Carnahan puts it, "You finally sneak away for dinner, and someone comes up to talk about a community initiative." This constant need to be "on" can be exhausting, as Jessica Penman points out when she talks about getting stopped by the General Manager at her local grocery store. It's a testament to the constant visibility and high expectations that come with leading a Chamber.

However, all four leaders agree that this is a manageable challenge that they’ve all learned to navigate as part of stepping into a leadership position in their communities. David Key reminds us that "the burden is the privilege." He has found that even the hardest days are incredibly rewarding, and the growth he’s experienced in just seven months has been immense.

---

Advice for Aspiring CEOs

For anyone in the Chamber industry who aspires to a leadership position, these four leaders offered clear and consistent advice: build your network.

• "Building a network of mentors and supportive colleagues has been instrumental to not only my professional growth, but with helping me navigate this transition," says Natalie Leighton.
• "Engage in each area of professional development available through W.A.C.E.," advises David Key, emphasizing that this will broaden your scope and give you the support you need.
• Both Jessica Penman and Candace Carnahan encourage finding your "people" or "cabinet" to make the journey easier and to have a trusted group for support. Jessica also suggests getting a professional coach once you're in the role, calling it "one of the best things I did!"

The path from staff to CEO is a challenging one, but with the right resources and support, it is incredibly rewarding. As Candace Carnahan says, "This job is hard. But hard things have a way of producing amazing outcomes. So when you get those wins—big or small—celebrate the heck out of them. You’ve earned it."
​
W.A.C.E. is proud to be a part of these incredible journeys and looks forward to supporting the next generation of Chamber leaders.