Forward Focus
Kiley Chandler was named director of the Brownsburg Chamber of Commerce earlier this year and is bringing a fresh perspective to the Brownsburg business community.
As a college student at Butler University, Chandler majored in strategic communication and organizational leadership. She interned at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and later at The Vogue in Broad Ripple, gaining experience in public relations, social media and event planning.
“After college, I was the director of events for OneZone, the largest chamber of commerce in Hamilton County, and planned more than 70 events each year, such as Taste of the Chamber, golf outings and their first gala,” Chandler says. “It really gave me chamber experience and an understanding of what membership looks like, how chambers function and how they help the community.”
The Brownsburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors hired Chandler. The board is made up of 11 members; anyone in good standing with the chamber for at least one year is eligible, and members serve three-year terms.
“Our current board includes a strong mix of experience and fresh perspective,” Samuel Lowe, president of the board, says. “Some are brand new, while some members are in their final year of their second term. The balance gives us continuity and institutional knowledge, along with new energy and ideas.”
The board was seeking someone to take the reins of the chamber. In recent years, several directors have had short tenures, and by selecting Chandler, the board is looking for long-term leadership.
“The chamber has experienced leadership changes, but neither of the last two directors left in a way that reflected dissatisfaction or lack of support from the board,” Lowe says. “They were strong leaders and a good fit for the role, but like many organizations, when personal events or professional growth opportunities arise, individuals sometimes choose to pursue new paths.”
In selecting Chandler, Lowe says the board was seeking a strong communicator, relationship builder and advocate for local businesses. Strategic thinking and organizational leadership were key, along with the ability to grow membership, strengthen programs and ensure the chamber remains financially stable and relevant.
“The board chose Kiley because she brings a powerful combination of institutional knowledge, real-world experience and a deep commitment to the Brownsburg business community,” Lowe says. “Kiley impressed the board with her professionalism, communication skills and thoughtful vision for the future of the Brownsburg Chamber. She brings fresh ideas and a grounded understanding of what it takes to run a successful chamber, making her an excellent fit to lead the organization forward.”
Chandler says she is ready for the role.
“I love helping people and helping small businesses reach their full potential and watching them grow,” Chandler says. “It’s really heartwarming when you’re able to connect people, whether it’s a small service connection or a personal connection. It’s watching someone help themselves while helping someone else.”
She is also aware that many people do not realize all of the benefits the chamber offers and hopes to spread awareness throughout the business community.
“It’s the little things you didn’t know were a resource for you — a specific restaurant, a childcare provider, or a store that offers something you need,” Chandler says. “We also want to learn more. Through attending events, we can learn about our community, a new marketing tactic or AI — tangible things that can help a business.”
Most of all, Chandler says the chamber provides opportunity.
“It showcases your business. It’s the opportunity to be in the room with others who can help your business grow and can help you grow as a person,” Chandler says. “We want to engage, educate and empower, and we base all of our decisions on that.”
Chandler’s significant other lives in Brownsburg, and while she is familiar with some local restaurants and entertainment venues, she says she is excited to learn even more about the town.
“I’ve been attending luncheons and bopping around here and there, getting to know our members a little bit better,” Chandler says. “I’m excited to know Brownsburg on a deeper level, and every day I’m learning more. Brownsburg is a great town, and the growth is amazing. I love the community here.”
When she’s not meeting business owners or planning the next big event, Chandler enjoys reading, attending sporting events, traveling and visiting farmers markets.
“The board is excited about Kiley’s ability to bring energy, consistency and long-term vision to the position,” Lowe says. “We are confident she can continue the momentum of the chamber while also helping it grow in new and meaningful ways. We hope she will thrive in this role and become a steady, inspiring leader for the Brownsburg business community.”
From the spring golf outing to continuing to build the Festival of the Arts each fall, Chandler hopes to support annual events and create new ones in the future.
“I’m excited to be here,” Chandler says. “We want to help with connection and empower others. You do have a voice, and the chamber can help make sure it’s heard.”
