Leader of Lexington’s chamber of commerce announces plans to retire after 25 years
The leader of Lexington’s chamber of commerce will retire this summer.
Bob Quick, president and CEO of Commerce Lexington for the past 25 years, has a targeted last day of July 31, according to a news release from the regional organization that promotes economic development.
“I’m deeply thankful for the trust, support and shared vision that has defined these years. After careful consideration, I believe that the moment has come for me to step forward into a new season and to make space for the next generation of leadership to guide the Chamber’s path ahead,” Quick said in the release. “I say this with great confidence due to the strength of Commerce Lexington’s leadership and staff. The organization is vibrant, and the opportunities are immense for the future.”
Under Quick’s leadership, the regional chamber of commerce, economic development and workforce groups merged in 2004. The combination of the three groups allows Commerce Lexington to enhance the area’s economic wellbeing, create jobs and strengthen existing businesses.
Since, he’s led a nine-county competitiveness initiative, created a philanthropic arm for the chamber and launched an annual visit to Washington, D.C., where regional business leaders advocate for local priorities in meetings with Kentucky’s congressional delegation.
Commerce Lex Board Chair Nick Nicholson said in the release Quick is the kind of leader who knows how to pull people together to find solutions to the region’s biggest issues. It’s work that has garnered the chamber national recognition from a number of groups.
“Lexington would not be where it is today without his tireless efforts promoting our city and region,” Nicholson said. “Bob will be deeply missed, but he has attracted and mentored a phenomenal staff, and I know he will continue to serve his community in other ways.”
Quick has expanded the chamber’s internal programs, including the economic development tools the staff use to promote overall business growth in Lexington, Fayette County and surrounding communities. He has also enhanced the chamber’s public policy programming and its community and minority business outreach initiatives.
Central Bank & Trust Co. Chairman Luther Deaton, who was Commerce Lexington’s board chair in 2004 and 2005, said Quick’s crowning achievement has been building a regional approach to business growth.
“When he first became president of the chamber, he went out into the region and met with every official to listen and let them tell us what they needed. He always leads for the betterment of this city,” Deaton said. “Bob cares so much about people and this place we call home. I appreciate what he’s done for our community and this organization.”
According to the news release, Quick and his wife plan to remain in Lexington following his retirement.
“It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve this organization and to work alongside such dedicated leaders, partners and members of our business community,” Quick said. “I’ve been fortunate to serve in the chamber of commerce/economic development profession for 37-plus years. It has truly been an honor to serve 25 of those years at Commerce Lexington.”
.JPG)