Announcing a New Chapter – Thank You to Colleagues, Partners and the Community

In recent months, I’ve contemplated our work at the Metro Atlanta Chamber, our impact in the region and the unparalleled momentum we’re having right now. It’s a phenomenal time to be a part of the Atlanta story.

After much reflection, I have decided to step down from my post as president and CEO of MAC. I couldn’t be prouder of our joint accomplishments over the last six years and the partnerships and friendships I’ve forged. While I have mixed emotions about leaving, I know the organization will be in good hands and continue to stand on the firm foundation of business leaders and others who have championed its efforts for 160 years. I will remain in my position at MAC until a new leader is chosen and look forward to what the next president and CEO will bring to MAC and the community.

It has been an honor to build relationships with metro Atlanta’s community and business leaders and inspiring to work alongside our partners throughout our 29 counties to address issues facing the region. I’m lucky to have witnessed firsthand the impact you all have made, and will continue to make, in our community.

Additionally, our staff brings so much passion to the work we do to grow our ecosystem, protect our reputation and tell Atlanta’s story to the world. I am so proud of the programs and initiatives we’ve developed together to drive metro Atlanta forward and position the region for the next generation. I’m confident they will continue to approach the work ahead with the same level of excellence and sense of dedication.

From job creation to major sporting events, the momentum in Atlanta is palpable. There’s no feeling quite like the adrenaline rush that comes with convincing global companies and sporting events to come to metro Atlanta. Companies like Mercedes-Benz, Honeywell, Pandora, Starbucks, BlackRock, Norfolk Southern and many others have brought tens of thousands of jobs to the region. We have also recruited major sporting events to metro Atlanta alongside the Atlanta Sports Council to put our region in front of millions through the College Football Playoff National Championship, Super Bowl LIII and the upcoming NCAA Final Four.

In my next chapter, metro Atlanta and our remarkable, close-knit business community will continue to be a priority for me. I will remain a passionate champion for diversity on boards and women in leadership as well as an ambassador for this region we all love so much. I hope to focus on issues facing the community and drive deep impact. I will continue to serve on public and private boards and in various strategic advisory roles and participate in community work.

Metro Atlanta’s business community is second to none. Your engagement with MAC has truly transformed how we work and what we’ve been able to achieve in job creation, talent recruitment and retention, and quality of life. Thank you for your passion and the opportunity to work alongside you as partners in our effort to create a more prosperous, vibrant and inclusive region.

Hala