Board of directors

Featured Board Members

Sarah Watts, President & CEO

Gilbert Chamber of Commerce 

1. Number of years at current Chamber: 15 years

2. What is your proudest accomplishment as the leader of your Chamber? There have been several accomplishments over the years that make me proud. I am so grateful for the genuine relationships shared with my staff and the board of directors. And I’m proud of the meaningful connections shared with our town leaders and community partners, too. In recent years, I am proud of our Chamber’s focus to seek diversity in thought from our Board, staff, and volunteers. I think our programs are stronger and the relationships between members are more valuable because we have a variety of perspectives represented. I am also proud of our implementation and adherence to the EOS process. This process gives us clarity in where we are going, what needs to be done to get there, and who is accountable for each function within the organization. We experienced a 7% growth rate last year and I attribute much of our success to the EOS process.

3. What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities facing Chambers today? Right now, the biggest challenge we face is retaining talent within the industry. Chamber employment is a lifestyle commitment. Our careers are rewarding and fulfilling, but there are seasons when the workload is heavy. With so many businesses hiring, its challenging to keep the best and brightest performers. When it comes to the biggest opportunities, I consider the opportunity to collaborate as the way of the future. Our industry is better off when we communicate with one another and, when it makes sense, unify our voice and efforts. I also I think the biggest opportunity at our fingertips is to demonstrate our ability to build consensus within our business communities. I also believe there is great value in continuing our role as the sane center, to encourage constructive dialogue to solve problems, and to lead by example with innovation of programs and services which bring people together. Ultimately, business professionals are people, and people want to feel seen and heard. They want a place to belong – that is the space that Chambers can provide.

4. What do you hope to achieve as a board member for ACE? Iron sharpens iron. I hope to identify ways to further connect Arizona’s Chamber of Commerce practitioners – CEOs and staff members - on a regular basis so that we can learn from and grow with one another. There is value in sharing best practices and resources, especially when those professionals have the same intended outcome and are working in the best interest of our state. I also hope we can find ways to develop the next generation of Chamber professionals. A career in the Chamber industry is unique and can be by-design. I want to find ways to invest in up-and-coming leaders so they recognize the value of the industry and know that they are the future.

5. What is the best piece of advice you would offer younger staff in the Chamber world? Give yourself grace and one year. There is nothing quite like working for a Chamber. Every day is different and some days are better than others. Give yourself grace to ask questions, make mistakes, and reach out for help. And, give yourself a full year to wrap your mind around the actual operation of the organization. You are in a unique industry surrounded by professionals who truly care about your success. You get to be creative, serve your community, connect with others, and build a career that is all your own. Lead with your heart and others can’t help but follow.