Following a nationwide search, the Chamber Board of Directors has hired Chris Hardy as president and chief operating officer of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.

A graduate of Francis Marion University, Hardy is an experienced chamber professional and is currently employed as the president and chief executive officer of the Clemson Area Chamber.

Hardy is a recent graduate of US Chamber of Commerce Institute for Organizational Management (IOM) and is currently enrolled in the Certified Chamber Executive program. He is a director of the Convention & Visitors Bureau in Clemson and serves on many boards and committees: Clemson Rotary Club Board of Directors, Joint University & City Advisory Board, Clemson University School of Nursing Community Advisory Board, Pickens County Vision 2025 Board of Directors, Leadership Pickens County Executive Committee, and the Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Board of Directors. 

Involved in regionalism, Hardy was selected by seven Chambers of Commerce in Oconee and Pickens County to serve as lead administrator and spokesperson for Oconee Pickens Chamber Coalition. He is also experienced in forming and working with Political Action Committees.

"The first quarter of 2012 has been a time of transition for the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. While Inteim-President/CEO Bobby McKinney and Senior Director of Public Policy & Communications Deborah Bowie have provided excellent leadership during this transition, I'm very excited about Chris Hardy joining our Chamber, as the president and CEO," said 2012 Chairman of the Board Miles Espy. "Chris is full of energy and enthusiasm, and I believe that his chamber and CVB background coupled with his skill sets will make him a strong and effective leader for our Chamber and the business community."

Chis impressed our search committee during the initial telephone interview and has continued to impress us during every step of the selection process," said Judy Randle, Chair of the Selection Committee. "Chris is coming to the Albany Area Chamber with great skill sets in the chamber industry. I am looking forward to working with him to help our chamber member businesses and community grow.

"I am extremely excited to have been selected as the president and chief executive officer of the Albany Aea Chamber of Commerce. It is truly an honor to have been chosen to lead this 5 Star Accredited Chamber and the business community. My wife and I ae grateful to Miles Espy, Judy Randle, and everyone on the search committee, Executive Committee, and the Board of Directors for this opportunity," said Hardy.

Chris is married to Paige. He enjoys golf, hunting and attending athletic events.

For more an exclusive interview with Chris Hardy visit today's feature: An Interview With New Chamber President/CEO Chris Hardy.