KEARNEY, NE – July 17, 2026 – The Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has named Julie Snyder as the organization’s next President and Chief Executive Officer. Snyder will begin on August 24, 2026, leading Nebraska’s third-largest chamber and one of the region’s respected business advocacy organizations.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors and our membership, I am thrilled to welcome Julie,” said Nathan Dorsey, Board Chair. “Following a comprehensive national search, Julie stood out for her experience, vision, and collaborative spirit. We are confident she will build on the Chamber’s strong foundation and lead us into an exciting next chapter.”
Snyder brings extensive chamber of commerce and business advocacy leadership experience, including a proven record of membership growth, community engagement, and organizational excellence. She is eager to plant roots in Kearney and work alongside the region’s business community.
“I am honored to join the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce and grateful for the trust placed in me,” Snyder said. “Kearney has remarkable momentum, strong business leadership, and a clear sense of identity. The Chamber’s 5-Star Accreditation reflects exceptional professionalism, and I’m excited to build on that strength with fresh ideas, strategic focus, and collaboration.”
The national search was conducted with Waverly Partners, a Ward Howell company specializing in chamber of commerce and nonprofit leadership recruitment.
“We are grateful to Waverly Partners for their expertise and professionalism throughout this process,” Dorsey added. “Their work ensured access to a strong, diverse field of candidates.”
The Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce represents approximately 900 member businesses and organizations across the region. The Chamber is 5-Star Accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a distinction held by only a small percentage of chambers nationwide and serves as the unified voice for commerce and community advancement in Buffalo County.
Members and community partners will have upcoming opportunities to meet Snyder and welcome her to Kearney, with details to be announced in the coming weeks.
For more information, visit www.kearneycoc.org or call (308) 237-3101.
