Hardin County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Brad Richardson announced today he will retire effective March 31, 2021.
Richardson began his career with the Chamber in 2011. Over the past 10 years, he has worked tirelessly to promote business development and retention and to enhance quality of place in Hardin County.
“It has been a privilege to lead this organization and work alongside its members and volunteers to keep the Hardin County economy strong,” said Richardson. “The exceptional business and community leaders, the chamber’s Board of Directors and staff, and elected officials help make Hardin County a place we’re all proud to live and work.”
Under Richardson’s leadership, the merged chamber focused on efforts to support and grow the local economy. Most notably, the chamber’s strategic plan helped in establishing the Knox Regional Development Alliance (KRDA), a regional alliance focused on protecting and promoting Fort Knox to increase its economic impact.
Additionally, the chamber placed its focus on helping members to network, promote, develop and advocate. Significant accomplishments include:
Average monthly membership luncheon attendance growing from 250 to 375 people.
Launch of a Buy Local campaign.
Reinstatement of the annual Small Business Expo.
Local and future talent development through Leadership Hardin County and Youth Leadership Hardin County. In the past two years, Leadership Hardin County hosted its largest classes to date.
Richardson also raised the bar of the chamber’s role in influencing public policy by playing an active role in giving voters a chance to decide on expanded alcohol sales in Elizabethtown, Radcliff and Vine Grove, and he was a strong advocate for the state adopting Right to Work legislation.
“Brad’s leadership as President and CEO has been instrumental in making the chamber a true champion and driver of the local economic climate,” said Hardin County Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board Brian Kerr. “Brad connects people and ideas, encouraging collaboration and buy-in that has led to important alliances like KRDA. His leadership will be missed.”
In 2014, Richardson was recognized by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce with the Going to Bat for Business Award and named Chamber Executive of the Year by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives. In 2017, the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce recognized the Hardin County Chamber for Best Website and eNewsletter. That same year, Richardson received the Ft. Knox Gold Neighbor Award.
“It has been an honor to serve this community,” said Richardson.
A search committee has been formed to include members of the current Board of Directors, President Circle members and chamber members at large. The committee is seeking input from the Hardin County community on qualities they value in candidates and asks members to fill out a short survey. Visit hardinchamber.com/ceo-survey to complete the survey.
Interested applicants for the position should follow the chamber’s website and social media for upcoming details on how to apply.
