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The Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors announced, in a letter to its membership, that it was notified that chamber president and CEO Karen Brown will retire at the end of May 2026.

“The Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce truly appreciates Karen’s commitment and leadership over the past 12+ years. We wish her nothing but happiness as she looks forward to enjoying a quiet and simple life in retirement with her husband, Jim and dog, Brody. All of us are extremely happy for Karen and her new chapter but will miss her hard work and dedication,” stated Nick Graham, chairman of the board.

Graham and Melissa Harrison, chair-elect, will develop a plan for filling this role to the board in June. A search for the next president and CEO will begin shortly thereafter and Brown will assist the Search Committee with the process as we move forward, stated the announcement.

“While this is a bittersweet time for me, I am looking forward to assisting with plans for a successful transition in mid-2026. My time at the Outer Banks Chamber has been the highlight of my 25-year Chamber of Commerce career and I know the future is bright for this outstanding organization,” said Brown.

“The Chamber membership can rest assured that we will continue to offer all our planned programming, and it will be business as usual as we navigate this transition,” stated Harrison. “Karen’s continued commitment to the Chamber and its success are very much welcome and appreciated.”

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