By KEVIN BRADY
Laura Simpson is the new president and CEO of the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce.
The chamber’s board of directors made the announcement Monday, Sept. 9.
Simpson had been serving in those roles on an interim basis since June 7 when Tammy Bracewell, the chamber’s long-serving president and CEO stepped down. Bracewell, who served the chamber for 24 years, now works on special projects for the organization.
Simpson said it has been an honor to serve with Bracewell for 13 years, “and I am eager to continue to work together, although within a different structure, to advance the business community of the Greater Brandon area.”
“After three fantastic months of confirming that Laura was the perfect choice for the position, the executive committee and board of directors unanimously approved her new role,” stated Darren Denington, chairman of the board, adding that, “The current positive energy in the organization is extremely exciting right now.”
“Through my work with chambers of commerce, I have found an outlet for using my strengths, skills and interests, including getting involved in my community, creative writing, political activism and event coordination,” Simpson said. “It is not only the job I do every day, but it involves a lot of the skill sets and interests I find enjoyable.”
Simpson began her career in 1998 as an administrative assistant at The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce in Lakeland. After graduating with a bachelor of arts degree from Warner Southern College in 1999, Simpson accepted a position as vice president of the Brandon Chamber in March 2000, and has served in several leadership and managerial roles since joining the organization.
“I look forward to growing personally and professionally with The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Brandon community,” Simpson added. “I have been privileged to serve over the past 13 years with many business and community leaders in Brandon. It truly is an honor to continue to serve the business community in my new capacity.”
As for her goals, Simpson plans to focus on economic development, showcase and enhance the value of Chamber membership to both current and prospective members, foster relationships between members, helping members make key strategic business contacts, develop innovative initiatives to help members grow their business, and ultimately serving as an ambassador for the greater Brandon community.
“I love what I do and am fulfilled through my work; therefore, it never feels like a job. In that, I am truly blessed,” Simpson said.
Simpson is a sixth generation native Floridian from Bartow.