Kirk Kirkpatrick has been named as the Interim Leader of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, effective October 6. Kirkpatrick will serve in the interim role part-time, and until the board of directors installs a new President and CEO to replace outgoing CEO Amy Jackson.
“We want to take the time necessary to find the right replacement for Amy and therefore the Chamber Board has asked Kirk to step in as our Interim Leader during the selection and vetting process. Kirk’s history of service to our community and the chamber make him the ideal Interim Leader,” said Board Chairman Darrell Higginbotham.
Jackson’s last day in the office will be October 3. The search committee for Jackson’s replacement has been assembled, and they have begun their process. The search committee is led by Mark Martin, chair-elect for the Chamber’s Board of Directors.
“Since Kirk is not a candidate for the CEO role, he will be free to focus his energies on maintaining the momentum and direction of the chamber during the next several months. Although The Board and Executive Committee members will remain actively involved in the operation of the Chamber, we feel naming Kirk to this position will place a seasoned leader, knowledgeable about our community and the Chamber’s agenda, at the helm,” said Martin. “He will work closely with our talented Chamber staff. Kirk’s appointment allows the board and selection committee to focus their efforts on finding a new Chamber CEO knowing that our members are in good hands during the transition.”
Founded in 1913, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce has worked for a century to provide valuable benefits and services to member business and individuals. Today, with a membership base of more than 930, the Chamber is a critical partner in community and business development initiatives, serving as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region.