By admin The leader of one of Columbia’s key business organizations is stepping down after a number of years.
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Carl Blackstone is resigning as the president and CEO of the Columbia Chamber, he said in a Monday afternoon email to chamber partners. He has led the organization since 2014. Blackstone said in the email that he will “pursue a new professional opportunity.” The longtime chamber leader didn’t specify his next role.
“While this decision was not an easy one, I leave with immense pride in all that we have accomplished together and with great confidence in the future of the Columbia region,” Blackstone said. “Through a shared commitment to collaboration among business, government, education, military, nonprofit, and community leaders, Columbia has grown stronger and more connected than ever.
“The region is well-positioned for continued growth and prosperity, with a strong foundation built on partnership, innovation, and a collective vision for the future.”
Columbia Chamber board Chairman Terrance Ford told The State Monday evening that Blackstone will be leaving the chamber at the end of August, and that the board is still working through the logistics of possible interim leadership. Ford will chair a search committee for the Columbia Chamber’s next president, and that search will begin immediately.
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Blackstone couldn’t be reached for additional comment Monday evening.
A College of Charleston graduate, Blackstone worked in the political realm before landing at the Columbia Chamber. He was a senior legislative advisor to S.C. Gov. Mark Sanford, serving as the governor’s liaison to the South Carolina Senate and House of Representatives. Before that, he served as a district field manager for Sanford during Sanford’s first stint U.S. House of Representatives.
Blackstone also is a former government relations advisor for the clients of Copper Dome Strategies, LLC, a subsidiary of Haynsworth Sinker Boyd, P.A.
“Serving the Columbia Chamber since 2014 has been one of the greatest honors of my professional career,” Blackstone said in his Monday statement. “Over the past twelve years, I have had the privilege of working alongside an incredible Board of Directors, a talented and dedicated staff, and engaged Chamber Partners who are deeply committed to strengthening our business community and improving the quality of life throughout the Midlands.”
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