The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry announced last Wednesday that Gene Barr will retire as president and CEO of the organization in the second quarter of 2022. Barr has led the PA Chamber since 2011.
“For the past decade, I’ve been fortunate to not only lead this organization, but to work with its talented staff, dedicated member organizations, and our pro-growth allies in state government to create a stronger, more vibrant Commonwealth,” said Barr. “Working together, we’ve enjoyed numerous successes and while more work needs to be done to improve Pennsylvania, I am confident in the Chamber’s strong leadership and staff to pave the way forward for continued success.”
Barr has more than 45 years of experience in various facets of government, political and public affairs activity, and business operations. He joined the PA Chamber in February 2003. Barr served for more than eight years as vice president of government and public affairs before being selected president in October 2011. During his tenure, he has worked on many significant legislative and regulatory efforts critical to improving Pennsylvania’s business climate.
“We are sincerely grateful to Gene for his decades of service and commitment to the Pennsylvania business community,” said Nicholas Bertram, chairman, PA Chamber, and president, The GIANT Company. “While we are certainly going to miss Gene’s leadership, I’m excited about this opportunity, which comes at a pivotal time, to shape our future. We’ll be seeking someone who not only builds on Gene’s legacy, but an individual who is passionate about the Commonwealth and will boldly lead our business community to the next level.”
The PA Chamber has established a search committee, led by Bertram with Brion Lieberman, chief human resources officer at Geisinger, serving as vice chair. The committee has engaged an executive placement firm to help lead in the search process, ensuring that it attracts a diverse pool of highly qualified candidates to lead the organization. Barr will remain with the Chamber until his successor is appointed and will assist with the transition.
For more information, visit: https://www.pachamber.org/thenextchapter.