Jennifer Irwin Takes the Helm at Fayetteville Chamber, Eyes Strengthened Business Ties
Jennifer Irwin, a seasoned leader and Dallas native, has just been named the new president and CEO of the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce. This appointment marks a significant shift for the chamber, as Irwin brings a wealth of experience and institutional knowledge to the role. Her tenure officially began on November 20, 2024, when she succeeded Steve Clark, who had been leading the organization since 2009
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Irwin, a graduate of the University of Arkansas, has been an integral part of the Fayetteville Chamber since 2012. During her tenure as the director of leadership, she has widely impressed the community and chamber board members alike with her dedication and passion. Mark Power, assistant dean of philanthropy at the UA’s Sam M. Walton College of Business and incoming chamber board president, lauded Irwin’s exceptional leadership, saying, “Jennifer is an exceptional leader. Her dedication and passion for the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce have been apparent since she joined the team. We are excited about her new role as president and CEO.”
We talked to Larry Shackelford, president and CEO of Washington Regional and the current chamber board president, who expressed confidence in Irwin’s ability to impact the Fayetteville community immediately. He highlighted her extensive knowledge of the community, staff, leadership, and the organization’s personality, saying, “We are excited for Jennifer to join the legacy of leadership of the Fayetteville chamber as our next president and CEO. She knows the staff team, the community, the leadership, and it is quite clear that she will have a significant impact on our community and our members right off the bat.”
- Background:
– Education: University of Arkansas graduate.
– Experience: Director of Leadership at the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce since 2012. - Leadership Summary:
– Appointment Date: November 20, 2024.
– Previous Leader: Steve Clark.
– Chamber Members: Approximately 1,200 members.
Jennifer Irwin is poised to further fortify the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce, leveraging her deep understanding of local dynamics to bolster business ties and advance community growth. As she embarks on this new chapter, it is clear that under her leadership, the chamber will continue to thrive and play a pivotal role in the region’s economic and social development.