Amy Lee has been named the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director. Lee will be stepping into the role following the retirement of Sandra McGuire, who served the chamber for the past 20 years.

According to a statement from the chamber: “McGuire’s leadership has been instrumental in fostering strong business relationships, supporting community initiatives and promoting economic growth in Leeds. Under her guidance, the chamber has seen significant expansion, the creation of numerous successful events and the strengthening of partnerships that have contributed to the vibrancy of the local economy. Sandra’s impact on the Leeds community will be remembered for years to come.”

Lee said she is eager to build on McGuire’s legacy while bringing a fresh perspective and new ideas to further the chamber’s mission of supporting local businesses and fostering community development.

“I am honored to have served as the Executive Director of the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce for the past two decades,” McGuire said. “The relationships I’ve built and the growth we’ve achieved together as a community will always hold a special place in my heart. I’m confident that Amy Lee will continue to lead the chamber with the same commitment and enthusiasm.”

Lee expressed her excitement about joining the Leeds chamber.

“It is a privilege to follow in the footsteps of someone as accomplished as Sandra McGuire,” Lee said. “I look forward to working closely with our businesses and community partners to further the Chamber’s impact and continue to make Leeds a great place to live, work and thrive.”

Lee shared a bit of her personal story.

“I was born in Fresno, California and raised in South Carolina, which I feel qualifies me as a southern girl! I’m Hmong, the youngest of 11 and happily married since 2016. My husband, born and raised here, introduced me to this charming town of Leeds and, of course, I couldn’t help but absolutely fall in love with this city. I’ve worked in everything from customer service to corporate accounts and love to lend a listening ear. I have an enthusiasm for learning and love meeting new people, because to me, this community is more like family. There’s a certain sense of history and togetherness the city of Leeds brings and I hope to continue that tradition while building growth and new relationships, which I hope we can do together!”

According to a statement from the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce, the organization is “confident that this leadership transition will pave the way for continued growth and success for both the organization and the Leeds community.”

Both McGuire and Lee were recognized at the October chamber luncheon and a special retirement celebration honoring McGuire will be announced soon.