Blackwell Chamber announces leadership partnership with Industrial Authority

The Blackwell Chamber of Commerce has announced a new collaborative leadership partnership with the Blackwell Industrial Authority aimed at strengthening the organization and expanding its role in the local business community.

Under the partnership, Charlene Flanery, acting executive director of the Blackwell Industrial Authority, will also serve as executive director and CEO of the Blackwell Chamber of Commerce.

Flanery will work alongside the Chamber's Board of Directors, members and community partners as the organization looks to refine its structure, strengthen member services and engagement, continue board development and establish a strategic direction for the future.

Flanery brings a background in economic development, organizational leadership, strategic planning and partnerships with government and community organizations. She holds a master's degree in Grant Writing, Management and Evaluation and is both a Certified Economic Developer and Master Economic Development Practitioner.

Her previous experience includes leadership within Oklahoma's professional economic development organization and working with legislators and state, regional and local officials on economic development initiatives.

Chamber officials said the partnership is intended to bring together the resources, relationships and expertise of the Chamber and Industrial Authority around their shared goal of strengthening Blackwell's business community and local economy.

"The Blackwell Economic Development and Industrial Authority is pleased to jointly announce an agreement with Blackwell Chamber of Commerce to achieve our shared goals of strengthening and enhancing the Chamber's value to its membership, which in turn will strengthen the local economy," BIA Board Chairman Darrel Grossardt said. "We look forward to a close and long-term relationship."

Blackwell Chamber Board President Andrew Campbell said the organization is looking forward to a renewed relationship with the Industrial Authority.

"We are thankful for this partnership opportunity," Campbell said. "We are excited about the future of the Chamber, the value we can provide for our members, and our role in contributing to and fostering a stronger local economy."

Over the coming months, Flanery is expected to work with Chamber leadership and members to identify new opportunities, strengthen connections within the community and develop a strategic path for the organization.

The announcement comes as the Chamber enters a new period of leadership following the departure of former Executive Director Noel Black earlier this summer.

Chamber leaders said the ultimate goal of the partnership is to build upon the organization's existing foundation while ensuring the Chamber continues providing meaningful value to its membership and the wider Blackwell community.