Chamber Leadership

In Dave Adkisson’s book, Horseshoes vs Chess (Chapter 1), he talks about the many different types of leadership styles chamber executives may possess and what that means.

I’m going to focus on four; Surrogate Leader, Catalytic Leader; Aspirational Leader, and Servant Leader.


Surrogate Leader – Dave talks about this style of leadership is for the metro chamber who is hired to manage complex issues dealing with the chamber, government, and the community at large.


Catalytic Leader – as describe in ACCE’s Horizon’s 2025 Initiative, this executive is described as a CEO who can accelerate change for the community.


Aspirational Leader – is the leader who always works to see things to improve, get better for the community.


Servant Leader – is the executive who leads from the middle (my term).  Dave talks about this type of leader must be able to lead out front or from behind.  As Dave states, “this leader is dedicated to a cause of building an effective chamber and improving one’s community is the best underlying indicator of a true servant leader.”


I’d suggest you don’t have to be tied to one leadership style.  It all depends on your situation at a given time.


It’s about adapting your style to make change for your chamber and community.