Rusher to Step Down as Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce President & CEO After 8 Years

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rusher to Step Down as Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce President & CEO After 8 Years

KEARNEY, Neb.—After eight years of leadership, Derek Rusher, President and CEO of the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce, has announced he will step down in February. He will pursue a new opportunity as Chief Executive Officer of Team Concepts, a Nebraska-based leadership and culture development firm.

Rusher, who began his tenure in January 2018, is known for his visionary leadership and commitment to the Kearney area business community. Under his guidance, the Chamber achieved significant milestones, including its first-ever 5-Star Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a distinction held by only the top chambers in the nation.

During his tenure, Rusher guided the business community through challenging times, including the historic Kearney flood and the COVID-19 pandemic. He also spearheaded the Forward Kearney Capital Campaign, advancing plans for a new office building designed to be a hub for business growth and community collaboration. Under his direction, the Chamber received numerous state and national awards for its programming, communication, and public policy efforts.

“I have nothing but gratitude for my time with the Chamber,” said Rusher. “This organization is strong, our team is exceptional, and the Chamber is in the best position it’s ever been in its rich history. We’ve built something special here, together. It’s simply time for me to follow a calling that’s been on my heart for years.”

Rusher’s new role will bring him back to Team Concepts, a company that focuses on leadership development, team building, consulting, team motivation, communication standards, and organizational effectiveness through proprietary frameworks and consulting systems.

“Before I began at the Chamber, I worked part-time with Team Concepts, and that experience ignited a passion for helping people and businesses unlock their full potential,” Rusher said. “Now, God has opened the door for me to return to that work full-time. It’s both exciting and humbling to step into this new season.”

“Derek’s leadership has transformed not only the Chamber but the entire Kearney area business community,” said Nathan Dorsey, Chair of the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “He led with vision, courage, and faith, guiding us through challenges and positioning the Chamber for long-term success. We are grateful for his service and confident that the foundation he built will carry us well into the future.”

Rusher will continue to serve as President and CEO through the middle of February to ensure a smooth transition and continued momentum for key Chamber initiatives. 

In conjunction with this announcement, the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has initiated a leadership transition process. The Board will collaborate with Rusher to provide continuity in operations, support staff and members, and responsibly prepare for the Chamber’s next President and CEO.

About the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce

The Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce represents almost 900 members and is dedicated to promoting a strong business environment, fostering community growth, and advancing the economic vitality of the Kearney region.