Denver Metro Chamber CEO & President Kelly Brough to Step Down This Fall
Brough Spent 12 Years with Chamber, Overseeing Major Policy Advocacy, Membership Growth and Economic Equity Efforts
DENVER – Kelly Brough, the first female CEO and president of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce in its 153-year history, will step down this fall after nearly 12 years with the organization.
Brough began at the Chamber in 2009 to join the Chamber’s work in putting Coloradans to work in good jobs, knowing that nothing is more powerful at advancing opportunities for families than a really good job. That belief aligned perfectly with the work of the Chamber and its affiliates.
“What this job showed me again and again is that we are not only stronger together; we are smarter together,” Brough said. “It’s time for somebody who can see challenges and opportunities with fresh eyes to lead the work. I know that with your support and commitment, we will only continue to accomplish great things together.”
The Chamber grew in membership and revenue during Brough’s tenure and had significant impact in several key areas that have helped shape Colorado.
“When most people think of the term leadership, they think of Kelly Brough. Kelly has been a catalyst for growth in the Denver metro region. Her contributions to the Chamber will be felt for years to come,” said Chamber Board Chair Trey Rogers. “The Board will work with Kelly and the senior team to facilitate a thoughtful transition, serve our members and investors, and search for a new leader to help us focus on our three pillars – education and workforce, health and wellness, and infrastructure.”
Chamber accomplishments during Brough’s tenure include:
- Helping to create a model for funding higher education that rewards completion for Colorado’s kids who need financial support, advances high standard for students and teachers and supports a focus on early literacy that will transform lives.
- Advocating for open primary elections for unaffiliated voters in Colorado, ensuring more Coloradans can engage in the electoral process earlier.
- Supporting the development of a water plan and playing a role in gaining voter approval for its first funding source.
- Helping bring diverse energy partners to the table to advance policy that ensures we can protect our environment and support our economy.
- Working to increase transportation funding, which is a major priority under consideration this legislative session.
- Establishing Prosper CO to address the racial and gender disparities in our economy with a specific focus on income disparities, small business support and homeownership.
Brough will step down from her position Sept. 1 and plans to focus her future endeavors on two issues that are fundamental to helping families succeed – housing and education. The Chamber Board of Directors will begin a search for the next president and CEO immediately.
About the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce: For 153 years, the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce has been a leading voice for Colorado’s business community. With a membership that spans the state and includes 3,000 businesses and their 400,000 employees, the Chamber is an effective advocate for small and large businesses. The Chamber’s family of organizations includes the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, the Denver Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation, the Denver Metro Small Business Development Center, the Colorado Competitive Council, B:CIVIC, Prosper Colorado and the Denver Opportunity Youth Initiative. For more information, go to denverchamber.org.